Jinlee Colucci-Chang

BA Drawing with a Minor in Psychology

Instagram: @jin_rose

ARTIST STATEMENT: Choices consists of two life-size oil pastel drawings showing my Puerto Rican and Chinese heritage. Being multicultural, I created a representation of who I am by drawing two different scenic views of what can be seen when walking around these countries. The two drawings are merged together at the center of the floor which suggests that there is a connection between these two locations. The slim trunks and branches at the edge of the paper implies that these places are part of my roots. These bold and bright colors exhibit how fortunate I am to be a part of these two rich cultures. The placement of this piece in the corner allows the viewers to immerse themselves because the drawings are visible in their peripheral vision. 

I was born in China and then moved to Puerto Rico, where I lived for many years. This upbringing made me doubt who I am because I felt I was never Chinese enough or Puerto Rican enough. This prevented a deep connection with either of the people. I learned both Spanish and English which resulted in me losing my ability to speak Cantonese and I did not celebrate Chinese holidays while I was living in Puerto Rico. These experiences made me feel alienated from these rich cultures and it made me think, Who am I? I used to see my background as this blur of confusion. I knew I was growing up with the Puerto Rican culture, but did that make me Puerto Rican?  As time passed, I learned I did not have to choose just one culture because I am still both. I have shared experiences with other Puerto Ricans as I did grow up on the island and I’m choosing to learn more about my Chinese heritage. I understand now that I should not have felt the need to choose one over the other.

I feel that since I wrestled with my identity, other people may share this challenge. People start to question who they are and sometimes investigate their background. With Choices I share a part of who I am and a way to reassure the audience that they can embrace their many sides.