Join us on a journey through the rich tapestry of Chinese American history, as seen through the lens of iconic dim sum restaurants.
From casual morning tea gatherings to grand wedding ceremonies and poignant post-funerary events, dim sum restaurants function as vital communal spaces. In doing so, these establishments serve as cultural archives, evolving to reflect the multi-dimensional experiences of Chinese Americans while forging a collective identity. This exhibition explores the evolution of these restaurants through various pivotal eras: from establishments built during the exclusion era, specifically structured to leverage immigration loopholes that allowed Chinese entry into the U.S., to the post-World War Two shift that saw Chinese Americans flocking to suburban fast-food joints. Grand halls like Jing Fong are also spotlighted, notable for their self-designed interiors capable of hosting multiple wedding ceremonies simultaneously. This transformation—from clandestine hideaways to opulent palaces—mirrors the arduous journey of Chinese Americans as they take charge to shape their own narratives and identities.
About the artist:
T.K. Justin Ng is a designer and artist. His research explores Chinese American architecture through the evolution of dim sum restaurants. He is the founder of SPACED AGENCY, the design studio and consultancy leading the design of Welcome-to-Chinatown’s Small Business Innovation Hub.