Date of Award

5-2-2017

Document Type

Research Paper

First Advisor

Jenny Herrick

Second Advisor

Ken Berthel

Abstract

Through my art I want to showcase my grandparents struggle of imigrating and adapting to American life. My work is a depiction of Asian American life in the early 1960’s. I use found images of my female ancestors and manipulate them through the traditional style of chinese paper cutting. Paper cutting is a way I can connect to my Chinese heritage through art. Traditional paper cutting dates back to second century CE after paper was invented in China. Flora and fauna are very significant in Chinese art. Similarly, I have imposed plants into all of my pieces to illustrate location and history of the photos. My work focuses on Chinese American cultures through the years. Chinese immigrants began searching for more work and a better life in America in the early 1900’s. Through the ancient Chinese style of paper cutting, I am able to depict the lives of my grandparents and studies in China. I wanted to use my grandparents as an example of history, culture, and adaptation in Asian American life. My work highlights my family as they immigrated to America. It shows what it is like to adapt to a foreign land. It shows how different environments change your identity.

Comments

WSP Major: Visual Art and Media Marketing

Download

Share

COinS