05/06/2026
May's featured artist is Fungwai Parker! Read more about the exhibition and view Fungwai's gorgeous watercolors in the upstairs Tech Hub Hallway, now through the end of May!
"As we celebrate Mother’s Day this month, I have chosen two portrait paintings as featured works. One is a portrait of my late godmother, and the other is a portrait of my daughter.
These two works depict two women I love dearly. As an artist, I find myself within these mother–daughter relationships— first as a daughter, and now as a mother. I am deeply thankful for the love I have received, and for the love I am able to give in return.
The portrait of my godmother captures a moment that reflects her personality. “天跌落嚟當被冚” is a Cantonese expression she often used, which literally means “when the sky falls, use it as a blanket.” It conveys the idea of remaining calm and composed even in the face of disaster. The background of this painting shows a day when she was allowed a brief leave from the hospital after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, with only weeks left to live. She was very weak, with little left to look forward to. She had lost control over her life and could only depend on those around
her. In the painting, she sits in an old vehicle, supported by a seatbelt that also holds up her fragile body. Yet she seemed unbothered. She smoked quietly through those final moments, as if savoring memories and sensations from her life, evoked by the familiar rhythm of inhaling and exhaling a cigarette. Her eyes appear distant and unreadable—what might have been in her mind?
In contrast, the portrait of my daughter represents brightness and joy. It was taken in Tahiti on a hot, brilliant day under intense sunlight. A gentle Tahitian breeze moved across her face as she smiled. Her eyes sparkle with joy and hope. She is fully present, enjoying every moment in this paradise on earth and looking forward to new adventures. Life is good."
