The Petal (Cánh Hoa)
Digital Video
3:58 min loop
2020

Location: Or Gallery, 236 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T7

This piece explores the struggle of Asians born in the West who often battle with dueling identities. The video features Kara Juku morphing between an Áo dài (traditional Vietnamese garment) and a contemporary outfit; shapeshifting out of the want to fit in. It represents her journey as she learns to embrace her heritage while navigating societal pressures.

Kara Juku | @kara.juku
Kara Juku is a drag sensation. Debuting back in April 2019, in a short amount of time she already has proven to be one of Vancouver’s top drag performers. Recently she was the first ever Asian artist to be crowned Vancouver’s Next Drag Superstar 2020 and also holds the title of Vancouver’s East Side Drag Phenomenon 2019. She is best known for her out of this world high energy dance performances while merging traditional Asian styles. Make sure to stay tuned as she is working on her first single which is due to release soon!

Christian Yves Jones | @christianyvesjones
Christian Yves Jones is a Philippine-born, New Zealand raised filmmaker. He graduated from the Auckland University of Technology (New Zealand) on a Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship. His work has made official selection in the 43rd Dance on Camera Festival in (New York, USA); Jumping Frames International Dance Video Festival (Hong Kong); and the Choreoscope Dance Film Festival (Barcelona, Spain; and Bucharest, Romania). Christian’s upcoming short film, Dumplings / 餃子, filmed with BIPOC artist, Kimberly Ho, will soon feature in the Festival of Recorded Movement here in Vancouver.