2023
oil on canvas
160 x 120 cm

Inspired by my mother, Li's, own journey as a first-generation immigrant in the 90s, the portrayal of her younger self amid a late 20th century Melbourne streetscape epitomises the reality of cultural dichotomies. Through research and exploration, I seek to perpetuate a self-discovery of the Australian identity.

The concept developed from a fascination of people's relationship with their environments, in particular, my family within the Australian context. While holding interviews with my mother and sorting through our old family photos, I began to unravel her stories; at the same time, got to discover a part of my past.

It was interesting to note the similarities yet vast differences of my mother and mine experiences in the balancing of culture and assimilation- how the immigrant experience as well as cultural associations evolve trough generations.

* Exhibited in Top Arts 2024 at Ian Potter Centre: National Gallery of Victoria
* Recipient of the Jessalyn Leong Art Award