I grew up in nature, so I always craved the opposite - a high energy bustling city life. Through my 20s and most of my 30s I spent time in cities, and I loved it. When our family grew and we had a kid, that’s the first time I started yearning for nature again, perhaps my son was reminding me of my own childhood and the privilege of being near nature. I’m nearing 40 years old and my pendulum has swung the other way where I now need this space and time to let my creativity roam free.

I think there is more to the embodiment of cultures than customs and traditions, and when there is more than one culture you embody it becomes an interesting smorgasbord of identities. Nepal and Korea are both part of me every single day and in everything I do.

As I’m getting older, I think I’m caring a little less about what people think about me and my work. This is extremely liberating for me, as I think one of the core concerns of diasporic identity is exactly that. The concern of others and the concern of other’s ideas of you affects the existence and survival of many who struggle to fit in. The pandemic opened the portal to a lot of these narratives and connected many people together, despite the chaos and hate. There is synergy created within that, which has been a burst of creativity for many. I’m honored to take part in this moment.

I love my time with my family. We eat dinner together every single day. I know that sounds unspectacular but for me it’s amazing. Living in NY it was hard for us to all be together for every meal, let alone cook. It brings me much joy to have a busy day and come home, make a healthy meal and sit down and share our day together. Peter and I watch Nima play as we drink tea and chat and laugh. This is the happiest time of my day, and perhaps the most rewarding.

My family is my lifeline, they are my inspiration, I love my boys.

I can only wear soft garments and the Anaak dresses are so soft and comfortable. I noticed when the cotton dresses arrived they smelled like home to me. I saw a tag that said they are made in India. There is a specific scent that connects me to South Asia, the bright colors also remind me of home.