Studio San Giuseppe Art Gallery Exhibit Sep 16th – Oct 26th, 2024: As It Was Meant to be Told – Asian American Artists on Selfhood and Belonging

Mount St. Joseph University is proud to announce the opening of As It Was Meant to be Told -Asian American Artists on Selfhood and Belonging, a thought-provoking exhibition featuring the works of four Asian American contemporary artists exploring the complexities of self-identity through self-portraiture. The exhibition will run from September 16, 2024 to October 26, 2024 and invites viewers to engage with powerful narratives woven through photography, video, and installation. Mount St. Joseph University is a participating venue as part of the 2024 FotoFocus Biennial celebration.

About The Exhibition

In a world where identity is often defined by external perceptions, As It Was Meant to be Told offers a compelling depiction of selfhood as an act of reclamation and exploration of identity. This exhibition brings together a diverse group of Asian American artists who use their practice to navigate and express their multifaceted identities. Their work transcends typical depictions of the physical form; instead, it reflects ancestral stories, cultural traditions, and the realities of modern life. Through these intimate self- portraits, the artists invite viewers to witness and reflect upon the complexities of their lived experiences, celebrating cultural heritage and embracing the depth of the Asian American experience.

Featured Artists

The exhibition features the works of four dynamic artists, each at a different stage in their artistic journey, yet all connected by their commitment to self-exploration and cultural commentary: Jamie Ho, Jesse Ly, Osamu James Nakagawa, and Hyerim Hwoang.

Opening Reception & Panel Discussion

Join us for a free admission artist talk and a panel discussion on the role of self-portraiture in contemporary art beginning at 1:00 pm on October 13, 2024 in the Recital Hall on the Mount St. Joseph University campus. The opening reception of As It Was Meant to be Told -Asian American Artists on Selfhood and Belonging will immediately follow inside the Studio San Guiseppe Art Gallery located inside the Dorothy Meyer Ziv Art & Design building. Guests will have the opportunity to meet three of the artists, talk with the curator, and enjoy refreshments.

Press Contact:

Michaelann Kelley

[email protected]

Curator Contact:

Emily Wiethorn

Assistant Professor of Art & Design

[email protected]

[Link]