In the Artist’s Words:
The Joss Series consist of culinary ingredients that are important to both the Hmong culture and upbringing. They are ingredients commonly found in celebrations, funerals and everyday life. They are presented on a background inspired by the ceremonial joss paper that are burned as monetary offerings to the deceased. Together, they represent the idea that these ingredients are the true riches of the Hmong people outside of monetary means. Regardless of where Hmong people go, these ingredients will hold a high value to the Hmong community regardless of what form of money is used. In American culture, the leg and thigh is seen as a cheap cut meant for fast food, cheap eats, and a cheaper cut. This greatly contrast the significance it holds for the Hmong community. For the Hmong people, the chicken leg is one of the most treasured cuts of meat you can eat. It was historically offered to the guess of honor, someone you deeply love, a sick loved one, and/or someone who holds the utmost importance to the host. If you are ever offered the full drum, accept it knowing that it is given with the utmost respect and love.
Biography:
As a multifaceted artist based in Detroit Michigan, my work serves as a bridge between the imagination of my clients and the visual reality of their projects whose personal work addresses issues of identity, cultural self-hate, sexism, and cultural understanding within the Hmong American Community. My creative work aims to create an open dialogue that fosters communal bonds and enables viewers to confront the underrepresented struggles of my culture.
My upbringing as a Hmong American male in a household full of Hmong American females has been a defining influence on my work. Through witnessing my female family members grapple with the challenges of their identities, I have been inspired to advocate for their support and representation. By visually exploring the cultural pressures and tribulations of the Hmong American community, I hope to spur open dialogue and create a stronger sense of unity and acceptance, while telling my story.
Portfolio: https://www.nsyart.com
https://linktr.ee/ngianhormua