SAINT PAUL GEM & HISTORY - Photographs by TJ LOR
In Progress / Saint PAUL / circa 2023
This exhibit was co-curated with IP artists Mary Richardson and TJ Lor for presentation at Studio 213. The team worked to select and present the following works. Images will be displayed through August 2023 and is available to view upon request.
OPENING RECEPTION Friday, September 22nd 5-8PM
213 Front Avenue . Saint Paul MN. 55117
TJ will be present to answer questions and provide a personalized tour of her work at this time at In Progress’s studio 213 A light meal will also be provided.
ARTIST STATEMENT
What people will see in this exhibit are hidden gems of St. Paul & the rich history of Minnesota for Hmong Americans. I've lived in Minnesota my whole life and don't know the rich history of being Hmong. But this will be the beginning of a lifetime to self discovery & understanding the true and very rich history of my people.
I'd like to thank Nia Madison for always being my #1 supporter and my best friend, Charles for being my last minute model. and my family for pushing me to be the best that I can be, even though it came with tough love. I'd like to thank Ka & KaYing for bringing lost knowledge into the U.S. It was a healing experience. I'd like to thank In Progress for teaching me what I know and all the mentors that helped me along my journey to success. Last but least, I'd like to thank myself for being here today to experience something great.
Biography
TJ is a Hmong American artist. Born in Minneapolis, raised in Saint Paul. TJ started with music when she got involved with IP then moved onto photography and has continued since. Through trial and error with photography, she has progressed with her craft for the past three years.
TJ’s craft is more candid shots rather than posed shots, she’s more into covering events and musicians. TJ is slowly learning more about photography and expanding to more than just candid’s and events. She’s learning more about lighting and poses, it is a challenge, but she’s learning. TJ hopes to become a professional photographer full-time and much more.
In Progress is a 2023 recipient of a Creative Support Grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. Additional supporters for this exhibit series include: The F.R. Bigelow Foundation, Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, the McKnight Foundation, The Saint Paul Cultural Star Program and the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council.