As an Asian American artist, I’ve often found myself confronting complex feelings around identity and representation in the art world. Growing up, it was not uncommon to see Asian features stereotyped or misunderstood, especially in media and popular culture. The term "Asian fishing"—where non-Asian individuals adopt Asian mannerisms or looks—has become a hot topic recently, highlighting concerns about cultural respect and authenticity. From personal experience, it’s disheartening when cultural elements are appropriated without understanding or respect. For instance, the "fox eye" or "almond eye" trends popularized widely often disregard the lived realities of Asian people who have faced bullying and stereotyping because of their features. As artists, we use our work to share stories and perspectives that challenge these stereotypes and bring nuanced understanding to our communities. Navigating spaces like TikTok or art galleries can feel empowering but also challenging when cultural misrepresentation is prevalent. However, it’s important to remember that our unique voices as Korean American artists contribute to a richer cultural landscape. Engaging with hashtags like #koreanamericanartist and #artistsoftiktok helps connect and unify our community, fostering solidarity and visibility. In sharing my art, I aim to celebrate our identity while addressing broader societal issues, including racism and cultural appropriation. These conversations are vital, especially when considering how Asian narratives have been shaped historically and are evolving in contemporary art and social media. Becoming aware and educating others helps contribute to a culture of respect and genuine representation. If you’re an artist or creator from a marginalized background, I encourage you to use your platform to tell your story authentically. It’s through our own voices that misconceptions are dismantled and diversity is truly embraced. Remember, your experience is valid, and through art, we can inspire dialogue, change, and greater understanding.