Growing up, I was always torn between my Japanese and American identities. I have always sought validation in Japanese culture, and yet I still know very little about it. My primary focus in my art is to explore different aspects of Japanese culture, ranging from the Asuka period to modern-day Japanese art. I hope that someday I will be able to connect with my Japanese side more.

This piece reflects my struggles of wanting to overcompensate for the Japanese part of me. I feel vulnerable and timid with how complex Japanese culture is. I took inspiration from ukiyo-e styles of art for the butterflies, and a more westernized Asian style for the red clouds. Sometimes it can be tricky navigating identity, which is why I feel like fire is similar to identity. A little soul-searching can never hurt, but too much can get lost in the flames.