Tai Anh Bao
BIO
I was just an othered trying to be one of you. I lost myself; I don’t know what I am anymore. Do I desire the same things? Or are you on the other side of my mirror? You didn’t want me, and I no longer want to be you.
Despondent is a personal exploration of otherness, belonging and identity as I contend with the act of assimilation in white spaces. Through shame, guilt, coercion, and isolation, this work embodies a deep sense of control that I desire to take back, and the continual attempt and failure of this action. There is a darkness that is present in this work, but a conflicting light that is stronger.
CAPSTONE PROJECT
DESPONDENT
I was just an othered trying to be one of you.
I lost myself; I don’t know what I am anymore.
Do I desire the same things? Or are you on the other side of my mirror?
You didn’t want me, and I no longer want to be you.
Despondent is a personal exploration of otherness, belonging and identity as I contend with the act of assimilation in white spaces. Through shame, guilt, coercion, and isolation, this work embodies a deep sense of control that I desire to take back, and the continual attempt and failure of this action. There is a darkness that is present in this work, but a conflicting light that is stronger.
FEATURED Work
Title: Despondent
Dimensions: 72 x 72 in.
Year: 2026
Materials: Naturally dyed silks and wool, rust printing and indigo
Title: Despondent
Dimensions: 72 x 72 in.
Year: 2026
Materials: Naturally dyed silks and wool, rust printing and indigo
Title: Despondent
Dimensions: 72 x 72 in.
Year: 2026
Materials: Naturally dyed silks and wool, rust printing and indigo