In Progress

Carving the text onto the sculpture for Ms. Bay.

Ms. Bay

This fourth sculpture tells the story of Ms. Bay, a Vietnamese senior who lives near me in South Philly. I was recently at her house and she showed me how to make Vietnamese summer rolls. A screenprinted recipe book is on its way.

Beginning of the end

I had expected some vandalism with the high exposure of The Bird Park- but not so soon! Last night, someone threw an empty bottle of Jameson Whiskey and hit the top of the sculpture with Ms. Ba's story. Below is an image of Mr. Chankong's piece, beginning to break down naturally.

Ms. Thong Sy

Ms. Thong Sy Soundara moved here from Vientiane, Laos in the late 90's. She likes Philadelphia because it has a very strong Laotian community. She recently moved to a new house with her husband because his illness has made him unable to climb stairs, but they made sure to stay close to SEAMAAC so she can still attend Jook breakfast on Tuesdays.

Carved in Clay

I have been making lots of friends and have been photographed by many a tourist as I make these sculptures onsite at The Bird Park. The stories on the sculptures are interviews from Ms. Ba of Saigon, Vietnam and Mr. Chankong from Vientienne, Laos. Coming next, Ms. Bay and Ms. Thongsy.

The Bird Park at Gallery Joe
3rd and Arch, SW corner
Philadelphia PA 19106
Open Wed to Sat 12 - 5:30

Carved in Clay

This outdoor exhibit of clay sculptures was inspired by interviews of South East Asian refugees living in Philadelphia. The exhibit opens September 15th and the reception will be October 11th. Postcard design by Doctor Pizzoli.