Noj Mov

Nov Moj is a series of three mixed media sculpture sets use comfort food, and art toys to bring awareness to Hmong history. Just as story cloths, and paj ntaub are used to communicate through a visual language, this project is a conversation around familial generations, socioeconomic status, Hmong assimilation into American society, and cultural preservation.

Materials: plastic filament, wood glue, card stock, acrylic paint, sealant, and Velcro.

Boxes / Packaging

The designs for each set was inspired by real toy packaging. Each box has similar, but varied elements to distinguish each one from the other. Green, yellow, and pink were chosen for their importance to Hmong textiles. The artist name acts as the “brand”, and each mascot is in reference to both the set’s name, as well as the generation it belongs to. “Open Me” is prominently placed to invite the viewer to interact with the art.

The front side contains the name, and photos of the real life foods contained inside. The left, back, and right panels give context to which generation, time period, and location the set belongs to.

Me Nyuam / Child’s Set

The Me Nyuam / Child’s Set comes from my own childhood meals, and that of similarly aged family members growing up in Minnesota. Green Velcro dots continue the color scheme, and give audience members a sense of how to return items to their original place within the box.

A large portion of rice, a flexible jointed egg, and a slice-able hotdog make up the main meal. A knife inspired by Hmong machetes is included as cutlery.

Boiled mustard greens, and many pieces of pork belly are nestled in the bowl. The plate ware is adorned with motifs such as the ram’s head, and mountains (Bowl Set 2), as well as clouds, and flowers (Bowl Set 3).

Niam / Mom’s Set

The Niam / Mom’s Set comes from my mother’s childhood meals while growing up in rural Laos, and refugee camps in Thailand. Blue Velcro dots compliment the color scheme, and give audience members a sense of how to return items to their original place within the box.

A medium portion of rice, and a small bunch of bananas comprise the main meal. This special treat is a common sight in South East Asia compared to the larger American banana.

Boiled mustard greens, and pieces of pork are nestled in the bowl. The plate ware is adorned with motifs such as the clouds, and flowers (Bowl Set 2), as well as the elephant’s foot (Bowl Set 3).

Niam Tais / Grandma’s Set

The Niam Tais / Grandma’s Set comes from my grandmothers’ childhood meals while growing up in rural Laos. Pink Velcro dots continue the color scheme, and give audience members a sense of how to return items to their original place within the box.

A small portion of rice, and a slice-able knob of ginger make up the main meal. A knife inspired by Hmong machetes is included as cutlery.

Boiled mustard greens, and the extremely rare occasion of pork are nestled in the bowl. The plate ware is adorned with motifs such as the heart, and flower (Plate Set), as well as clouds, and house (Bowl Set 2).