The trek up to the Flomenhaft Gallery was a tough one- strong winds and wet grounds discouraged us from enjoying the walk, but once we entered the cozy warm building, I was instantly myself again. Hidden among all the other art galleries on the block and tucked under and beyond the High Line, it’s easy to overlook the tiny little building, but once I entered the lobby, I was struck by how clean and wide the space looked. It was grim and dark out on the streets, but once we walked up the stairs to the second floor gallery, I was pleasantly grateful for how warm and bright the studio was. When we entered the doorway, Ms. Flomenhaft was also kind enough to walk us around the studio and give us detailed explanations of the exhibit and each piece and the artist behind the paintings. What really struck me was the depth of knowledge Ms. Flomenhaft had about the artist, as well as the art subject. The ease with which she explained each piece was impressive and helped me develop an interest in the exhibit.

The artwork that most stood out to me was Flo Oy Wong’s pieces on “paper people.” Various books and textbook knowledge have taught me about the early Chinese immigrants’ struggles in western United States, but seeing them on display is a totally different learning experience. I have a deeper interest in this subject because I’ve learned of the injustices early Chinese, as well as German and Irish immigrants faced when they first settled in America. They were persecuted primarily for their ethnic background, and at a certain time period, these groups were even prohibited from immigrating here, which contradicts America’s own principles on equality for all. However, history should remain in the past, and what’s important is these artists who have taken a creative approach in retelling history through their artwork.