What is your name?

The "What is your name?" project was first conducted at the Farmers Market at King School as part of Assembly 2023 – AN ART + SOCIAL PRACTICE GATHERING and gradually became a cornerstone of my art and cultural exchange practice.

This micro-cultural exchange continued at various events, including the Art and Zine Fest at Reed College, Assembly 2024 at Lloyd Center Mall, and Open Studio sessions during the MFA Open Studio at Schnitzer School of Art, Art History, and Design in Portland State University.

At each event, participants shared their names and stories, choosing between Katakana or Kanji for their calligraphic representation. For those who chose Kanji, I carefully selected the characters based on the sound of their name, the narrative behind their naming, and the inspiration I felt during the moment of connection as I held their hand. Once the piece was complete, I explained the meaning behind the chosen Kanji, sharing an interpretation that created an additional story tied to their name. This process allowed participants to experience a new layer of meaning and cultural connection.

The project also served as an ongoing collection of stories, forming a living anthology that reflects the project's rich tapestry of personal connections and shared experiences. Each participant left with their personalized calligraphy as a tangible memento of their cultural exploration and connection.

This project holds deep personal significance to me. It serves as a tribute to my Sho mentor, Shofu Wakayama sensei, honoring his legacy by weaving his teachings into my artistic expression. Through this practice, I continue to celebrate the beauty of cultural exchange, connection, and storytelling, fostering meaningful dialogues across diverse communities.