The shape of home

Abstract

Society often frames the concept of home as singular. Despite this, I examine the intersections of home with place, identity and memory. Being raised by Japanese and Irish immigrant parents, in North Dakota, I am intrigued by what defines a sense of home. In this thesis paper, I investigate my own experience of growing up in a multicultural context and the shared experiences of children growing up in a multicultural context. I especially focus my research on Third Culture Kids and those with Half-Japanese or Half-Asian identities. Through the mediums of acrylic and watercolor painting, I create my own representation of home. I include that which brings a sense of belonging; objects, places and symbols from my own heritage, including Japanese patterns, Kamon (crests), and Celtic Knots. Through my work, I aim to bring awareness to how layered and complex belonging can be, especially for those who, like me, struggle to consolidate many parts of themselves.