Oil paint and decorative paper on canvas

Monica Youn combines traditional mediums with organic material to create narratives of identity, folklore, and her personal experiences as a first generation Korean American. Youn researches the past to both explore her roots, discuss social norms, identity, and perception in a media centered world.

It is a known fact that many Asian Americans grew up with affection displayed through actions versus words of affirmation. This is my love letter/ letter of appreciation to those that I've spent time with or never had the chance to speak freely to. Although I voice my opinions and feelings to my American peers, there is a language barrier when it comes to speaking with my grandmother, aunt, and extended family members. After losing my fluency at a young age, Korean has never felt natural for me to speak, although the language is comforting to hear.