Koreana Americana
Timothy Park
This thesis examines the influence that two distinct cultures exert on one individual and the struggle to embrace, or forsake, aspects of one culture over the other.
This personal investigation documents the ethics of authenticity and appropriation as well as includes universal considerations for all Asian-Americans.
Introducing the double identity
Korean-Americans navigate their environments with the pressures of two cultures constantly tugging to gain dominance. Depending on where the individual finds themselves, and more importantly, what the individual chooses to be, a concept of self is formed between two oscillating identities.Recognizing differing experiences against similar cultural backdrops
Depart from the expected, the obvious
Our ethnicities may be immutable, but the environmental influences that influence cultural posture may not necessarily be so. These layers shape the psyche and ultimately inform what the individual feels and how they will express themselves.
Pause to breathe
I will walk this life uninterrupted by the gaze which follows me. I will lead by example and not by frameworks set by those outside my tribe nor within.
Reflection
Tension
Embrace
