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About me
I was born in Burien, Washington. I grew up surrounded by a family with a diverse culture. My mom is Vietnamese American, and my dad is half Indonesian Chinese. When I was two years old, my parents decided to move to Chiang Mai, Thailand. My mom had lived in Thailand for over ten years and fell in love with Thai art and culture. She wanted me to grow up surrounded by the same environment she had lived in during her childhood. Growing up in Chiang Mai, I was surrounded by temples, nature, and, most of all, art. My parents encouraged me to try all kinds of activities, like ballet, gymnastics, piano, drawing, singing, and Thai dance. Out of everything, Thai dance became the one thing my parents and I truly loved.
Photographer: Vokeng Prateep
There are so many types of Thai dance, and I’ve had the chance to learn a few. Khon, for example, is a traditional dance drama that tells ancient stories like Ramakien or a Thai version of the Ramayana. Lakhon Nai is a court dance that focuses on refined movements. Fawns are mostly performed for celebrations, it focuses on synchronized and graceful movements.
Photographer: David Ryo
While visiting my relatives in Jakarta, I had the chance to learn some Balinese dance including Legong, Pendet and Ramakavaca. Legong which focuses on detailed and precise movements, often performed to express beauty and emotion. Pendet, a ceremonial dance, is traditionally used to welcome and honor gods during religious ceremonies. Ramakavaca is a Balinese adaptation of the Ramayana based on the Ramayana.
Living in Thailand for over ten years has also made me notice some of the challenges people in my community face. I want to help in any way I can. I’ve been volunteering with several organizations and had a chance to start my projects. Where we provide resources for children, help seniors in need, as well as find ways to protect the environment and care for animals.
