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Lauren Hana Chai

Spicy

part of a series on Spicy

24:43

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Lauren Hana Chai is Unafraid to Get Spicy, Raising Bold Questions and Diving Deep Within

Lauren Chai delves into the bold and provocative nature of her “spicy” works, which she describes as her “visual diary.” Through painting, she navigates the complexities of her life—examining personal experiences, moral dilemmas, relationships, and sexuality. With fearless honesty, she raises poignant questions as a Korean American bisexual woman, exploring her identity, processing trauma, and challenging societal norms across both Korean and American cultures. Her art captures her ever-evolving emotions and offers a distinctive perspective on the intersection of identity, history, and society. Through intricate details, Lauren weaves narratives that expose societal hypocrisies while honoring Korean history and tradition. Her pieces often intertwine themes of intergenerational trauma, personal reflection, and a keen observation of the world around her, creating a dynamic and deeply personal tapestry of inspiration. Lauren’s work is unapologetically spicy, offering viewers a raw and thought-provoking look at the intersections of identity and culture.

About the speaker

Lauren Hana Chai is known for contrasting her traditional Korean upbringing with her modern American life and including a personal story or cultural narrative to accompany each piece. As the first in her family born in America, she was raised by her South Korean grandparents in Hawaii. She moved across the Pacific to San Francisco to study at the Academy of Art University. After some time following the technique-based curriculum, Lauren says she relished breaking the rules and mixing abstract elements into the work. Her current series places side by side traditional elements, such as Korean folk art and Buddhist temple architecture, and modern elements such as interracial relationships or sexually charged figures. She has been featured in NBC News, KBS World Radio, Houston NPR, and the Honolulu Star Advertiser.

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