Ho Tam Explores Family History Through Art at Chinatown Ross Alley Zine Festival
Hong Kong native and Vancouver-based artist Ho Tam is making a significant impact during his residency at 41 Ross, the San Francisco gallery operated by the Chinese Culture Center. His journey has not only involved his artistic exploration but also an enriching discovery of his family’s history in California.
Chinatown Ross Alley Zine Festival
This weekend, Ross Alley will host the inaugural Chinatown Ross Alley Zine Festival, showcasing Tam’s works and those from his publishing entity, Hotam Press. The event is set for Saturday and is designed to celebrate diverse voices and artistic expressions, featuring artists of color, film screenings, DJ performances, and various giveaways.
“Zines are incredibly appealing,” Tam explained, emphasizing their capacity for creative expression. “People are drawn to the tactile experience and appreciate the unfiltered, grassroots nature of these publications.”
A Personal Journey of Discovery
Throughout his residency, which commenced in September, Tam has had the unique opportunity to delve deeply into his familial roots, which he previously knew little about. His understanding of his ancestry largely stemmed from fragmented tales shared by his father and a few insights regarding his great-grandfather.
A pivotal moment for Tam occurred during a visit to Angel Island, a location rich with history. “Initially, I arrived here without any set expectations. I had dedicated studio time, but I also intended to research my family heritage,” he noted. His experiences on the island compelled him to investigate further, connecting with his cousin in Hong Kong for more information and eventually piecing together a family tree.
His findings revealed that his great-grandfather emigrated to California during the Gold Rush era of the 1850s, residing in Marysville. Upon his death in the early 1900s, Tam’s great-grandmother returned to China with some of their children, marking a significant chapter in Tam’s family saga.
“Processing this history has been enlightening. I often pondered why my ancestors departed from America, and this research led to newfound connections. Recently, several relatives reached out, fostering a family reunion that brought me back to Marysville,” he shared.
Artistry and Activism
Ho Tam, who holds fine arts degrees from prestigious institutions including McMaster University and Bard College, utilizes his art to comment on societal issues. His works often address themes of race, politics, and media influence.
- The Yellow Pages: This alphabet book, which doubles as a short film, critiques stereotypes associated with Chinese and Asian cultures in North America.
- The Company of Men: A photographic series showcasing the daily routines of businessmen as they commute to work.
- A Brief History of Me: A chronological photo series capturing pivotal moments from Tam’s life, with a corresponding historical context.
Tam articulates the importance of artistic outlets in conveying social messages effectively. “Artists need platforms to express not only their visual art but also their viewpoints on social justice. Through simple materials like paper and writing tools, artists can reach broader audiences,” he remarked. He places great value on the aesthetics of presentation, merging beauty with meaningful content.
What to Expect at the Festival
The Chinatown Ross Alley Zine Festival will feature contributions from various indie artists and publishers. Notable participants include:
- Everything Matters Press
- Floss Editions
- Writer Lisa Hsia
- California College of the Arts Student Collective Lab94107.cca
- Sming Sming Books
- Illustrator Jane Trieu
- Unity Press
- Punk publisher V. Vale
- Wasted Books
- CCC’s Design Shop
The festival will take place from noon to 4 p.m. on November 9 in Ross Alley, located between Washington and Jackson streets in San Francisco. Admission is free, making it an accessible opportunity for community engagement and exploration of the zine culture. For further details, visit the Chinese Culture Center website.
