This collection of work is a reflection of my interest in background illustrations and traveling. It is based on my personal experience as an exchange student and inspired by locations from all over the world such as Vietnam, the U.S., Morocco, etc. These illustrations could be used for potential animation studios. Highlighting the exciting life beyond the initial fear of leaving the bird’s nest and embarking on a new journey that involves traveling and experiencing exciting things. In addition, I am reminding others to remember where they came from. To treasure and hold onto their traditional family values, no matter where their journey leads them. If there is something from my past that heavily reflects my artistic identity today, it would be the art of origami. The co-dependence of graphics and colors in origami is what brings life to a piece of paper. The similarity between origami and my body of work is shape-based with a focus on abstracting the original object. I want my work to reflect playful shapes and colors. Vietnamese culture believes that burning an origami object is giving that item to the dead. In this story, the barrier between life and death represents the distance and limitation of visit I experienced during my time abroad. The protagonist’s spontaneous journey allows me to explore a variety of locations, moods, and lighting. Hopefully you will enjoy the journey as much as I did making it.
Growing up, I can not wait to learn to fly, To leave my nest. Toward new and exciting journeys.
To dive deep in the ocean, To wander around every corner of the world.
But as much as I love this exciting life, at times, I feel lost. Like I have forgotten my root. Like I don’t quite fit in. So I hold on tight to the things, the places that reminds me of home
A place where I can navigate with my eyes closed.
Where I grew up with a family who loves me despite all the barriers
But sometimes all you’re allowed, is to love them from afar.
I want to thank you Mom Octavio Perez Lindsey Hiramoto Stacy Moon Dustin Panzino Dion MBD Jody Kim Christian Montiveros And everyone who has been supporting me through my journey at Ringling!