2021

An Overwhelming Event: A Celebration and a Tribute

Peter Ngo

Peter Ngo

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute

2021

An Overwhelming Event: A Celebration and a Tribute

Peter Ngo

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute

2021

An Overwhelming Event: A Celebration and a Tribute

Peter Ngo

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute

A celebration: Taking shape in the form of lanterns. Something usually seen during Lunar New Year festivities which was missed this year. Traditionally, the celebration marks the first new moon on the lunar calendar, but to me the lanterns celebrate the start of a new time for my community and I. A great shift in energy. A tribute: The recent attacks on Asian Americans made me think about my grandparents and their lives. I think about them a lot and how they, along with my parents, have had to overcome and sacrifice so much, to which I owe my opportunities and privileges. I am forever grateful for all that my family and friends have given me. So grateful that I wanted to give back and pass the recent shift in energy to my people. Dedicated to my fellow artists, my fellow Asian Americans, my fellow Chinese and Vietnamese Americans, to my friends and to my family. 4 my people. The light seen features 21 handmade lanterns. The time spent and the physical process of constructing the lanterns was in a way meditative for me. The rhythm and flow of brushing glue on the reed, spraying the paper with water allowing it to stretch, smoothing the paper into shape around the reeds and doing so with my hands was an experience. The thought was to give a sign to those around me and my community who haven't quite found their stride during this time. A sign for those who needed it to trust in themselves and to keep going. To never stop.

An Overwhelming Event: A Celebration and a Tribute