On Being Michiko a sansei artist’s journey

On Being Michiko a sansei artist’s journey

Lillian Michiko Blakey

Tuesday, May 29 – Friday, June 22, 2012

Opening Reception: Thursday, May 31, 6-8 p.m.

On Being Michiko: A sansei artist's journey

    Who am I?  This is a question asked by all people whose roots are  two cultures. Even though I was not born until the end of World War II and my parents were both born in Canada,  I inherited the shame of all Japanese Canadians who were caught in the  dilemma of being both Japanese and Canadian.  Like many sansei, third generation Japanese Canadians, I grew up denying my cultural heritage, my first language and my people.

    It is only in recent years that I have tried to reconcile my dilemma by depicting my family's story in my art work.  I have attempted to bring past and present together  by including myself, as I am now, looking back at events which had taken place so long ago which have shaped my worldview.

    Alienation and persecution continue to be suffered by people all over the world.  As a result, many people have come to Canada, seeking a peaceful existence in a just society.  I hope that my work serves as a tribute to the courageous people who came before me and as a visual warning that the persecution suffered by my family can be repeated even in the most democratic of countries - even in Canada - if we do nothing to stop it.

                - Lillian Michiko Blakey