Family Values 

Reina Sundara

“Family Values explores how casual gambling can reflect deeper familial connections through laughter, heated exchanges, and eventual reconciliations.” 

Artist Statement

My work highlights the intricacies and richness of Laotian culture, particularly within the context of family dynamics. In many Asian households, vulnerability is often avoided, with emotions expressed through actions rather than words. Growing up in this environment taught me to appreciate the significance behind small gestures. These games capture the essence of our relationships, showcasing the love that underlies every emotional cycle. My art invites viewers to engage with these shared stories and the beauty of our diverse cultural backgrounds. 

The Gallery

The Process

Most of my work is done with oil paints because it’s the medium I feel the most comfortable in and love working with. With this piece though, I wanted to try something different, which led me to add the digital element of designing the deck of cards. I had never worked digitally before, so it was definitely a learning curve and I ended up going through three different styles before I landed on the final designs. In the end, I am very happy that I experimented digitally and am grateful for all the troubles I went through to learn the medium. 

About Artist

Reina Sundara (she/her) is a Latina and Asian American artist from the western Chicagoland suburbs. Her work typically pays homage to her cultural background with heavy inspiration from her family and upbringing in a large Lao community. She touches on themes of tradition, familial roles/dynamics, and migration while working in primarily oil paints and other drawing mediums. Reina is in her last year at Columbia College Chicago, studying for her BFA and minor in Graphic Design and has exhibited in 8 group exhibitions within her past 3 years of attendance. 

reinasundara03@gmail.com  

Instagram: @soondaruh

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