Nina's House, Irvine, California, 2010s

Nina's house is large, empty, and lonely, thus representing the lack of parental love and support in her life. Her father's long and frequent absences from the home illustrate both the fractured nature of her parents' relationship and the increased influence of her mother. The emptiness of Nina's house allows Nina and Seth to explore their sexual relationship freely. Nina's emphasis on the fact that the house is too large illustrates that there is no lack of money in her family, but that they are lacking in the ineffable ability to fill the space with what they have.

Planned Parenthood, Costa Mesa, California, 2010s

The Planned Parenthood in Costa Mesa is where Nina receives much of the help and support she needs to navigate her emerging sexuality and her first sexual relationship. The fact that she has to drive to Costa Mesa because there...