Mark Tan: Impermanence

Ever since Mark Tan was little, he has dreamed of moving to the United States. Tan, a third generation Filipino Canadian, was raised just outside of Toronto. Growing up in one of the most multicultural areas in the world, many of Tan’s friends were from immigrant families not unlike himself. While they all may have looked different or spoken different languages at home, Tan and his friends bonded over their mutual obsession with skateboarding. His passion for the urban sport is what initially fueled Tan’s desire to move to the United States. California was the mecca for him and his childhood friends. However, as Tan grew older, he began to have new passions beyond just skateboarding but his desire to move the US never waned. Eventually Tan was offered a job in the US and was given a temporary work visa–armed with his skateboard and a dream, Tan set out for a new life in the States.

Unfortunately, the move to the US did not come without its difficulties. Like many other folks that are dependent on work visas, Tan has oscillated between the US and his home country. To further complicate matters, Tan had to face many adversities such as ostracization and tokenism. Yet, despite the hardships and struggles, the good still outweighed the bad in his eyes. Searching for some understanding, Tan began researching his own family’s story and he realized their stories were much like his. They were just people looking for a better life.

For Mark Tan: Impermanence, Tan creates site-specific installations throughout the gallery that relate to his and his family’s immigrant experience. From feelings of isolation while living in a monoculture to learning about his grandfather’s journey from the Philippines to Canada to the bliss of getting your work visa renewed, this exhibition emotes the wide range of feelings many people feel as they transition to a new country.

Image courtesy of Mark Tan

Opening Reception

Friday, January 24, 6-8 pm