구절판
(Plate of Nine Treasures)

Year: 2024

Medium: Mixed Media

Size: 24”x 18”x 2”

Others: This sculpture is modelled after the traditional Korean dish Gujeolpan, which is composed of 9 different delicacies packaged in an octagon-shaped box, and explores the experience of how the immigrant experience affects identity. Incorporating elements to represent both my Korean and Chinese heritage, the lid of the box, made of foamboard and holographic vinyl to emulate wood and abalone shell, depicts a bird rising from the nest. Determined but alone, the bird flies west, reminiscent of how I also came to America from Hong Kong alone. Bauhinias, the national flower of Hong Kong, surround the bottom right, representing the comforts and happiness of the homeland, and the two birds represent family and friends left behind. On the left side, flowers also bloom, promising growth and new opportunities, but not without thorns and challenges. As for the contents of the plate, each of the nine components are made of found items and represent something important to both the physical journey to America and the journey in forging identity: the feathers are things that were shed or given up; the stones are burdens; the red thread is destiny; the jade beads are heritage; the shells are joys; the pills are physical and mental health; the Ginko leaves are hope; the last element remains a mystery, representing an uncertain future. The box is placed on a Bojagi, a traditional Korean wrapping cloth which has multiple uses, including food wrapping and as a sack for journeys. Bojagi are typically stitched and wrapped by the matriarch of the family, and is a tribute to my mother, who made the journey to America possible for me.