Published on August 4, 2023, by the newly launched Japanese Canadian Arts and Activism Project, this interview with Laura Kina was conducted by Shō Tanaka on July 25th, 2018.
Key Themes: Indigeneity, decolonization, migration, women’s history, family narratives
Interview excerpt:
Laura embodies building community and friendships in her artistic ethos, and her exploration of her Indigenous Uchinanchu identity through visual storytelling is crucial for broader Asian American decolonization narratives. Laura’s breast cancer diagnosis in June 2020 has shaped her experience of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. It lead her to document her journey through Youtube videos; a new series of paintings and photographs titled “Over the Rainbow, One More Time;” and a poignant short story titled “Second City, 2nd Shot” about her quest to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The beautiful ending of the piece aligns with Laura’s larger body of work and the depth of her dedication to her community where she asks: “Can I think beyond my body? Can I feel beyond my city? Can I see beyond islands? Can I dream beyond nation states? And still be here.”
