Pao Houa Her: My Grandfather Turned into a Tiger... and Other Illusions

Pao Houa Hers' first major monograph, "My Grandfather Turned into a Tiger... and Other Illusions," explores the concepts of home and belonging through illusion, desire, and loss. Drawing inspiration from family lore, portraits, and landscapes, the artist presents personal narratives rooted in the Hmong diasporic community. The monograph showcases Hers' keen eye for authenticity and explores the line between ersatz and reality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Aperture

Pao Houa Hers' first major monograph, titled "My grandfather turned into a tiger... and other illusions," delves into the profound concepts of home and belonging. Through a series of captivating narratives and visually stunning artwork, Hers explores the realms of illusion, desire, and loss.

Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of sources, including apocryphal family lore, portraits of her artistic community, and reimagined landscapes reminiscent of Laos, Hers' work weaves together a rich tapestry of cultural and personal references. Minnesota and Northern California stand in for Laos, serving as the backdrop for her compelling and deeply personal narratives.

At the heart of "My grandfather turned into a tiger" are four major series that showcase Hers' artistic prowess. The title work, in particular, reimagines her family's history before their departure from Laos, offering a poignant reflection on identity and displacement. Other series delve into the complexities of the Hmong community, addressing issues such as fraud and the pursuit of a homeland.

In her exploration of these themes, Hers employs a keen eye for the line between ersatz and authenticity. Through her photography, she challenges traditional notions of representation and explores the ways in which identity is shaped by cultural and societal pressures. Hers' work serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of art to transcend boundaries and connect people across different cultures and generations.

"My grandfather turned into a tiger" is the culmination of the Next Step Award, a partnership between Aperture and Baxter St at the Camera Club of New York, in collaboration with the 7|G Foundation. The monograph is beautifully designed, featuring up to thirty-two jacket iterations, each with its unique design. However, it is anchored by a consistent sticker on the front and back, symbolizing the interconnectedness and unity of the Hmong diasporic community.

In conclusion, "My grandfather turned into a tiger... and other illusions" is a remarkable achievement that showcases Pao Houa Hers' artistic talent and her commitment to exploring the complexities of home and belonging. Through her captivating narratives and visually stunning artwork, Hers invites us to reflect on our own identities, experiences, and the search for a sense of place and belonging in a world that is constantly evolving.

Dimension: 215 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781597115650