“The artwork is a representation of society’s response towards Asians when coronavirus cases first increased in the United States. Racism was a common theme throughout the process of creating the artwork because we thought it was necessary to highlight the racism towards all types of Asians. The flags depicted on the masks worn by the characters symbolize the diversity of Asians and refutes the ignorant idea that East Asians are the only types of Asians. The coronavirus stamp on the clothing shows how people from all over Asia are instantly labeled as a threat for their identity. Almost all of the figures are wearing prison clothing. The one exception is the boy in the center, who was drawn in a school uniform to emphasize the idea that even children at school experience racism from a young age. The American flag is drawn in the background to convey that this is the treatment of Asians in American society. The people in the artwork are standing on a floor that was modeled after a chessboard where they are seemingly pawns of American society because Asian Americans are constantly and strategically stereotyped to be outcasts.”
Sponsor: Blue Shield
"Thank you for sharing your inspiring words and talents with the world. You are leaving your mark and changing the perspective of many- Blue Shield of California is so excited to support you!"
Very well thought out and impactful!