My mural is named The Rainbow Connection. One side is a smiling girl with rainbow lipstick and the other has a man with a rainbow mustache. The smiling girl represents how much we have achieved for LGBTQ community. The frowning man with a fist alerts us that we cannot stop here and we need to keep working towards ultimate equality and inclusion. The paintings are all black and white except for the rainbow lipsticks and mustache, which symbolizes the joy and pride from being a part of the LGBTQ community. I moved to Hoboken this March. This mural project absolutely brought me closer to the city and made me feel a sense of belongingness. It would mean the world to me if my art could contribute a little part in helping others embrace one another, no matter their gender, sexual preference, or any means of identification.
I would like to thank the Hoboken Arts Advisory Committee for providing this meaningful opportunity for local artists to express their pride towards their neighborhood by the means of art. I started painting before I learned walking. I am the only child in my family. My parents were busy with their work all the time, so I learned how to entertain myself as a kid. Pencil and sketch paper were my best friends. I would spend hours drawing and coloring. I loved the feeling of getting lost in the ecstasy of pure creation, it almost felt like I was haunted and became a different person. That’s how I knew at a young age that no matter what happens, I will always have art to hold on to. A year ago, I participated an art show in TriBeCa. My collection of paintings received so much heartwarming feedback. The organization even conducted a personal interview with me after the show. It really encouraged me to keep exploring and capturing all precious moments in life with my paint brushes.
II bought my first apartment and moved to Hoboken. I always wanted to live in this dynamic and lively city. The artsy vibe and young energy have always been so enchanting to me every time I visited Hoboken. As a queer artist, I always felt welcomed and supported by Hoboken. The rainbow crosswalk on Newark street and Washington street is a symbol of a powerful commitment of embracing anyone, no matter their gender, sexual preference, or any means of identification. I truly feel honored to be a Hoboken resident and a part of this welcoming community. The design I came up with was inspired by the rainbow crosswalk. I sincerely hope my art would bring the same amount of joy and pride I received from the rainbow crosswalk to our fellow Hoboken residents and visitors.
