Seiji Igei (they/he)

Bio

Seiji Igei is an Okinawan-Japanese American artist with a BFA in Animation. Last year they completed a training program in Kin Town, Okinawa to connect with their familial and cultural roots. He creates comics, illustrations, animations, and promotional materials featuring QTPOC representation and Asian American pop culture. They have been involved with activist groups in Chicago such as i2i, AAAJ, and QTPOC club at DePaul University. Through narrative storytelling and nonlinear artistic exploration, they hope to engage viewers and their imaginations on what the world is and what it can become.

Solidarity Arts Fellowship reflection

“I've learned about the ways in which Islamophobia has manifested in media and its direct connection to government policy. I've gained new insight JA history in activism and the significance of it today. Through mental health practices and handcrafted arts practices, I've begun to connect more with my body and intuition. I've learned about restorative justice and the importance of building systems that support, uplift, and heal marginalized folx. With a frame of healing, I've begun to shift the way I view my art practice and reconsidered what my art can be and what I can do with it.”

Object of resilience

“I chose my shiisaa (Okinawan lion dogs) in the foreground; while they're out of focus, they are guardians of the home and they're presence is felt even if you can't see them. Traditionally, a pair of shiisaa are placed in front of/on top of a house to keep good spirits in and keep bad spirits out. I like keeping this pair on my desk as a reminder of my cultural roots and family in Okinawa.

I also chose to hold my sanshin (Okinawan string instrument) as music has been a grounding force for me. Playing the sanshin has been helpful in centering my body and practicing healthy discipline in maintaining healthy posture while playing. The music I usually play is incredibly nostalgic and reminds me of my family. Now understanding the context of the lyrics, it's empowering to continue the tradition of playing songs of life and resistance that my ancestors played and/or danced to.”