With this banner, created during the COVID-19 pandemic, Karen Tam asks how our elders are coping with the social isolation, mental health challenges, health risks, and continued anti-Asian attacks. This piece follows the Chinese tradition of families presenting a longevity banner to their elders in celebration of their significant birthday milestones. The large Chinese character in the centre translates to “long life.”
Autumn Tigers
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Karen Tam, Longevity to Our Elders, 2020
Jacquard ribbon, drill fabric, satin, 180.34 x 147.32 cm, Courtesy of the artist and Galerie Hugues Charbonneau, Montreal. Photo credit: Campbell River Art Gallery.