October 2015, I moved together with my husband Joshua to the Big Island, Hawaiʻi as permanent residents. It had taken me thirty-five years to follow my footsteps back to my place of origin. Almost. I reside in Mahiki not Volcano...
Nearly a decade later I have lived in the same home for the longest period in my life. My return has in many ways lead me to reflect deeply on my family story and ancestral lineage. I now see for the first time the importance to include my Chinese name as a practicing artist; to be known by my birth name in entirety: Ajna Joy Ch'iu Lichau. To me, my name speaks to the complexity of my family story. This story has informed my practice in many different reflections and mediums.