Khou Vue is a first-generation Hmong-American graphic designer and illustrator. After a decade-long career as a graphic designer, she felt a strong pull toward illustration and storytelling. In her work she strives to portray themes of femininity, cultural empowerment, and social awareness. Learn more about her work at www.koovoo.me.
What have you been up to since you created art for SEARAC back in 2021?
Wow, I can’t believe it’s been three years since I created that piece! It was such a joy to work on. Since then, I’ve illustrated two children’s books: Caged written by Kao Kalia Yang and published by Penguin Randomhouse was released this past May and Tinkering Toward my Spark written by Thai Chang and published by Minneapolis-based non-profit Green Card Voices is being released this fall. I also grew my family, I had a baby boy in 2022, and I’m welcoming a baby girl this winter so I am staying pretty busy!
What does the 50th anniversary of Southeast Asian American refugee resettlement mean to you?
To me it means my parents, my in-laws, my aunties and uncles have been surviving and striving for safety and a better future for half a century. It’s amazing how we have persevered and thrived, but there is still a long road to equality.
What do you hope for Southeast Asian American communities for the next 50 years?
For Southeast Asian American communities in the next 50 years I hope for economic growth, progress in educational attainment, more strides to increase diversity in all aspects of daily life, and just overall a sense of pride in our heritage.
Statement about the fundraiser piece: SEARAC asked me to create a design back in 2021 that was inspired by their taglines “Made by Refugees” and “Made by Immigrants.” My concept for this artwork stems from the positive impact that immigration has had on American society, and one way is through a rich cultural history of food. The commonality of enjoying good food can connect us all.
You can find t-shirts and tote bags with Khou’s designs on our Bonfire store AND new for this year, find stickers, posters, magnets, prints, and notebooks on our Redbubble.
Check out additional 50th Anniversary Fundraiser interviews with our artists here:
Holding onto culture through art with HNin Nie
Celebrating SEAA courage and bravery with Sheena Vang
Killamari is representing SEAAs in a big way
Kat Eng is finding the words for what it means to be free
Being outspoken about SEAA heritage with Timothy Singratsomboune