Artist statement:
The Chinatown International District (the CID), is the place that raised me, nurtured me, and radicalized me. Growing up in my family's seafood restaurant helped me understand the social and racial complexities of Chinatowns across Turtle Island, as well as exposed me to the conversations surrounding the history of exclusion and constant threats of displacement and gentrification,
This map was created in honor of that restaurant, celebrating the immersive memories of being surrounded by the bubbling aquarium tanks, incredible family meals, and a strong hearted community. It highlights some of the multitudes of community organizations and spaces that work to preserve this special neighborhood's important story through the lens of that special experience of my favorite Chinese restaurant.
About the artist:
Monyee Chau (they/them) is an artists with a BFA from Cornish College of the Arts, based in Seattle WA. Monyee explores a journey of personal and collective healing through means of labor, through intersectional lenses of being queer and Taiwanese/Chinese. They believe in the power of storytelling and breaking bread as a means of community building for the path to justice and liberation. They have exhibited and curated in spaces both locally in Seattle and internationally, including the Wing Luke Museum, Bellevue Arts Museum, SOIL gallery, Museum of Northwest Art, and California College of Arts and Crafts. They have been a speaker for Harvard Graduate School of Design, the University of Washington, New York University, Highline College, and Bellevue School District. They have been a recipient of the 100 Changemakers award from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Arc Artist Fellowship from 4Culture. Instagram: @monyeeart Web: chinesebornamerican.com
HOURS:
Weekdays 7AM - 6PM Weekends 8AM - 6PM KEXP is located at 472 1st Ave N, Seattle WA 98109. You will find us slightly north of downtown Seattle. We are located on the Seattle Center campus, just north of Climate Pledge Arena, and a short walk from Seattle Center's iconic Space Needle. Our entrance is on 1st Avenue North between Harrison and Republican.