Artist Statement
Đến Mẹ Của Tôi (To My Mom)
My mom is a role model and a caregiver in addition to being an immigrant from Vietnam. My mom and I don’t speak about her upbringing often because it was difficult for her to leave home. This project was an opportunity to connect with her and to learn about her childhood and cherished memories.
My mom grew up impoverished and sold fruit in the market alongside other vendors. She’s worked through long days and high temperatures in order to support her family. Regardless of the hardships faced, there were still happy moments during these days. She enjoyed the times she played outdoors with her family and friends, watching Cải lương (“reformed theater”) on the tiniest t.v. screen, and celebrating her first communion.
I illustrated the memories using paper cutouts to convey childhood and displayed them on the nón lá (leaf hat). A nón lá is a symbol of Vietnam and my mom’s memories of home. By sharing my mom’s story and having conversations about her past, I have learned more about my cultural identity. I would like this project to remind myself to make conversation and create moments with my mom. For us to acknowledge the hardships and to reminisce each moment that bonds us.