Although I am not composed of multiple races as I am full Filipino, I sometimes resonate to how mixed race people are blamed for the loss of culture of one’s race. I grew up in the Philippines until I was 16 years old when my family immigrated in the United States. Through the years, I have gained new relationships, friendships, and acquired knowledge through the eyes of the American people. I have gradually assimilated into the culture because of this and have paved a new integrated one that is distinct from everyone else’s. Indeed, I may be entirely Filipino biologically, but my experiences and lifestyle integrate that of other cultures as well, thus showing my mixed identity. Some may consider this an eradication of one’s culture, but I see this as an evolution of cultures.
As an artist, I want to showcase my identity as a Filipino-American. Behind my portrait are two familiar flags of the United States (left) and the Philippines (right). This represents the integrated lifestyles I have today. The solid colors of red and blue in the Philippine and US flags reflect the changing dynamics of my values and identity. When I grew up in the Philippines, my identity as a Filipino is one dimensional. However today, because of my experiences here in the United States, it has become multidimensional, which is shown by the layered shades of red and blue. The American culture is becoming a huge part of me as well. In the US flag, I integrated my Filipino culture within the American vibe and culture by drawing some Filipino mangos and bamboo leaves between the stripes.
I like your art piece. It brings up an interesting fact about mix race on whether you can identify yourself as mix race for being of two culture rather than two race. The art itself is a good visual of cutting different pieces to make the flags. The only thing I think needs improving is the artist statement. Try to explain why you choose the type of paper you used for the photo and what they mean.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed the collaging of the background of your portrait, it is a twist on portraits and I see that you challenged yourself on this art piece. Your artist statement brings up very important aspects of identifying as a race traitor - even though through blood you are not American, you still identify yourself as Asian American because of assimilation. The artist statement was well written - but I would like to see also what inspired the collaging and sketch of your portrait.
ReplyDeleteThe self portrait is amazing especially the background. The collage you made to show two different flags is really cool. Even though you are not mixed race, you still are able to bring up the concept of the race traitor because you culturally identify yourself as Filipino American. The artist statement does go hand in hand with the artwork. Overall great job!
ReplyDeleteI like your collage background and the solid image of yourself. The contrast makes your self-image really pop. Your artist statement is good but you didn't mention why the image of yourself drawn on yellow paper.
ReplyDeleteI really like how you used both flags to represent your identity. This idea is very similar to my self portrait. I thought it was interesting how you mentioned that your friends and relationships have allowed you to feel mixed raced based on all the different people you associate with. I think your artist statement did a great job in explaining your ideas.
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ReplyDeleteAn interesting take on having the complete identity of one race, but having two cultures. At first glance it looked like your background was just a lot of various papers, but a second take does show two flags. If I had not read your statement, I would have never guessed that they were the American an Philippine flag. It was a great idea to change the way the flags looked traditionally as so much goes with being immersed in the American and Philippine culture.
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