Defining a cultural identity is often complex and seemingly elusive, in that it evolves, shifts, and appears to lack definition. Though the language we use when discussing cultural identity often emphasizes differentiation and can sometimes be confusing, the immediate elements, objects, and lived spaces from which our individuality derives are wonderfully fixed.

 

After residing in Tokyo for the last two years, and now living back in the States, the experience has fueled my interest to consider critically not only the cultural heritage of my spouse (who is from Japan), but also the shape of my own identity. For me, one of the sites for this inquiry is the objects we use in our daily lives. The cups, plates, and knickknacks with which we fill our homes are part of how we define ourselves. In my current work, objects from both our homes merge, creating a place where geographically, and perhaps culturally distant objects interact. In the bringing together of these commonplace items, we slowly uncover the many places where our identities intersect and enrich each other.