I had the honor of designing this butterfly piece for the Pan-Asian American Community House (PAACH) 2024 mural celebration in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. I love how I get these opportunities to create art at work and make it an interactive project with the community. The colors of the butterflies are inspired by the flags of 68 countries and territories in Asia and the Pacific Islands. Each represents the traditions and heritage of its respective nation, reminding us of our unique identities and the interconnectedness of our world.🦋 More information about the celebration: On April 24, the Pan-Asian American Community House (PAACH) at UPenn hosted a mural unveiling celebration at the ARCH building lobby of the University of Pennsylvania in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. With more than 100 guests in attendance (students, staff, and faculty), the evening was a huge success.✨️ The audience received butterfly cut-outs that they would incorporate on the mural. The event opened with a dance performance by Yoyo & Yining, a delicate choreography emulating the elegant fluttering of butterflies. PAACH Director Mei Long welcomed the audience and shared the significance of the celebration. The mural was unveiled by the PAACH team, together with Will Atkins, Associate Vice Provost for University Life. Vicky Aquino, PAACH Associate Director and the artist behind the mural, shared the meaning of the butterfly piece: “A butterfly is a powerful symbol of transformation and the journey of life, as we evolve into our truest selves. The colors of the butterflies are inspired by the flags of 68 countries and territories in Asia and the Pacific Islands. Each represents various traditions and heritage, reminding us of our unique identities and the interconnectedness of our world. Take a moment to hold these butterflies and consider the wishes and dreams of the people from these nations. In your hands, you hold a connection to their stories, their struggles, and their triumphs. May this be a reminder of the invaluable contributions and accomplishments of AAPI immigrants who have enriched this country. As I stand in front of this mural, I become this butterfly. As students, you embark on your journey here at Penn, just like a caterpillar beginning its life cycle. Through your time here, you will undergo transformations, both academic and personal. While you learn to navigate your path and adjust to the constant changes in your life, PAACH is here to support you in your growth. Embrace your inner butterfly. Because you'll never know how far you can soar, until you spread your wings.” 🦋 Vicky asked the audience to find its butterfly pair from the mural to represent its unity. A delectable Filipino “Kamayan-style” lunch was catered by @babysphl, where guests ate together with their hands in a communal way. Special thanks to the dedicated PAACH team, Program Assistants, and the Penn community for their tremendous support.❤️
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