Bronx, NY
I’m 2nd generation Taiwanese, East Timorese American. My dad is at least 6 generations Taiwanese, and my mom is overseas Chinese (from southern China) born and raised in East Timor, then later schooled in Taiwan.
Who are you?
I’m a vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, dancer and creator of strange worlds. Right now, till end of July 2010, I’m in East Timor doing music research, which has been mind-blowing and so inspiring. It is also a reminder that we have to act quickly to help people in poverty. There is so much we can do, even as artists not making loads of money, to help (more strategies below).
What do you do?
I have the fortune of being a full-time music artist, performer, producer and private teacher, though I teach workshops when I’m asked to (I always prefer one-on-one). I travel and connect with people and connect people to people through the art which lies within us all. An advocate for equality and empathy among all races, sexual orientations, etc., these things I hope are communicated implicitly through my work and interactions with all people.
Why are you proud to be of Taiwanese heritage?
I’m 2nd generation Taiwanese, East Timorese American. My dad is at least 6 generations Taiwanese, and my mom is overseas Chinese (from southern China) born and raised in East Timor, then later schooled in Taiwan (high school and undergraduate studies). I’m so proud of having Taiwanese blood – so many reasons. This is a country of beauty, pride, dynamism, daring, and the potential to be a creative superpower. It has already been a leader in technology and inventiveness and production – I’m of course always interested in the development of maximum-risk artistic spirit anywhere in any place. So I look forward to spending more time in Taiwan beyond the time that I have already spent there researching and performing.
What does the future of Taiwanese America look like to you?
I guess I was already going into this above… I believe we can be blatantly proud and at the same time embrace all cultures at the same time. I envision us being automatically associated with the innovative spirit, the environmentally conscious spirit, and preserver of Taiwanese indigenous and folk culture and all ancient culture, tolerant of all religions.
Any additional information you would like to share?
Lots of links:
http://www.jenshyu.com
http://unartignyc.com/2010/01/18/jen/
http://www.myspace.com/jenshyu
My favorite Taiwanese food has to be anything red-bean related!
Leave a Reply