Happy International Women's Day!

Here's to the courageous, resilient, and compassionate women who inspire and empower other women every day. I am lucky to be surrounded by incredible women who show me what it means to be fearless and strong despite adversity and challenges. I think one of the best things about being a woman is the bonds that we share with other women - many of the women I know are fierce advocates and supporters for each other. 

I hope we can take this day to celebrate the women who courageously live out their truths and dreams, despite the challenges set before them. 

Here's to women everywhere. Happy International Women's Day! 

Lunar new year traditions

As the two week celebrations draw to a close, I'd like to still wish you all 新年快樂！Happy Lunar New Year and Year of the Dog!

The first time I spent Lunar New Year in Asia was three years ago, and I was staying with a friend's family in a rural part of Southwestern China. It was fun to see that there were so many traditions and rituals as part of the new year celebrations (I basically lost track of the all traditions and customs you're supposed to abide by) and so much delicious food! I never really got over the sudden shocking sound of firecrackers... that would go off anywhere, at any time for about three weeks. 

My family sometimes celebrated Lunar New Year in the US, but most years we didn't do much. I didn't grow up feeling too connected to the traditions that surrounded this holiday, but after spending time in China, I saw the extent of what a massive part of the culture it is. I experienced being part of the largest annual migration in the world - when the people in China return back to their hometowns to spend New Year with their families. For several weeks, the cities are empty and the small towns come to life with family celebrations. 

Growing up, I didn't understand the role of these traditions - but as I got older I realized how much they connect us to each other. Participating in rituals and customs are ways of connecting to the roots of who we are and our histories. 

Art Show at Cupcake Royale - Thursday, March 8th!

I'm excited to announce that I will be showing art at Cupcake Royale in Capitol Hill for the month of March! I love this venue and I frequently go there sketch out new ideas on my lunch breaks so I can't imagine a better place to share my work. The opening reception will take place on Thursday, March 8th from 5pm-8pm as part of the monthly art walk event.

This will be the biggest show I've done to date and lots of new pieces will be on display! Please join me for the reception and check out all the other artists that will be showing in Capitol Hill that night as well - complete list can be found here. 

Thank you to everyone who has been so kind and supportive of my work! I couldn't imagine doing this without the continued support and encouragement of friends, family, and strangers too. Hope to see you all at the show :) 

Link to the facebook event here. 

love yourself, feed yourself

When I finished this illustration, part of me wanted to write a long and extensive post about the struggles of body image and complicated relationship many people (especially young women) have with food. But I realized as started writing a few drafts that the reason I made this piece was because I am happy - so I want to just leave it at that. I'm doing so much better now. Love your body and feed your body!