To capture the experience of living between cultures, this piece is titled "Choice of the Day." The title refers to the act of code-switching or cultural frame-switching that bicultural individuals, particularly Vietnamese and Vietnamese Americans in the United States, navigate at some point in their lives or even on a daily basis. I chose to focus on the role of food in this cultural negotiation, as cuisine is a vital and deeply rooted part of Vietnamese identity. Food not only reflects the distinct flavors of each region but also embodies the labor of love, care, and resilience, qualities often associated with the Vietnamese spirit.
Pho and Chicken Noodle Soup are the central elements of this work. Through their contrast, I aim to highlight a cultural narrative shaped by opposition and choice. Pho is widely recognized as a traditional Vietnamese dish, while Chicken Noodle Soup stands as a classic comfort food in American cuisine. This contrast is further emphasized through the visual presentation, such as the differences in plating styles, condiments, and accompanying side dishes, drawing attention to the subtle yet meaningful ways cultures express themselves through food.
The concept of choosing which cultural identity to embrace on any given day is one I’ve personally grappled with, especially after studying abroad and living in the U.S. for an extended period. This artwork reflects that internal dialogue and the quiet, everyday decisions that shape the bicultural experience.