Thao Bui

I spend a significant amount of time immersed in poetry, music, and daydreaming, all of which elicit feelings that evoke vivid imagery. Listening primarily to Vietnamese music composed during the Vietnam War supports me to stay connected to my heritage and experience the heart of the Vietnamese community during a time of struggle. 

For me, the melodies convey the importance of presence, revealing glimpses of hope and love amidst the mundane. They provide relief and a sense of escapism when there is no immediate resolution. “Rain” and “Ocean” often emerge as central thematic motifs in the lyrics of this era, inspiring the shapes and meaning of my current pieces. Using thread, I intuitively embroider a pattern and sculpt the piece with my hands to create a form that can be adorned.

Overall, my work explores the process of integrating fragmented memories into a cohesive narrative. By interconnecting these threads of memory and emotion, it can help to form a more coherent and resilient self. Reframing experiences allows for new perspectives and integration of the hidden. Like embroidery, one thread on its own is delicate, but when intertwined, it weaves itself into a tapestry of new shapes, objects, landscapes and forms. 

An invitation to the observer: What mundane moments or objects stir wonder and curiosity within you?