Hom, Nancy

A digital archive of Asian/Asian American contemporary art history

Female

"Most of my art has drawn inspiration from, and given inspiration to, communities of color. In the 1970s, at a time when everyone was very much into identity issues – around ethnicity, sexual orientation, women’s rights, political issues, artistic disciplines, etc. – I tried to see the commonality of my identity with other communities that have struggled for social justice. I painted murals with Latina artists, mounted exhibits for an African American gallery, protested with Filipino tenants in Manilatown, silkscreened posters at Mission Grafica and in Japantown, danced in Carnaval, organized Asian American women artists, read poetry with lesbian artists, etc. I also didn’t just concentrate on my art. I attended marches and rallies, supported political causes, etc. I’ve kept ties with artists and arts organizations in the SF Bay Area and LA and NY, and also with non-arts groups.

As a visual artist and writer, my work in the past has drawn inspiration from, and given inspiration to, communities of color. I am probably best known for the silkscreen work I have done from 1978-2003. They were mostly done for community events and causes. My experience as an immigrant, mother, administrator, community activist, and spiritual seeker continue to provide the framework for my creative endeavors, which include writing (primarily poetry) as well as visual arts. The themes of my artwork – women, family, culture, protests, and celebrations – are universal. I like to depict various emotional states and to evoke sensuality through curved shapes and fluid lines, with a minimum of detail. I favor the single image in my work, to have one figure or gesture be the symbol for universal truths."

Nancy Hom, Artist Statement