October 28, 2024 IN: Community Stories, Our Voices

50th Anniversary Fundraiser: Celebrating SEAA courage and bravery with Sheena Vang

Sheena Vang, known artistically as Pabgha, is a talented Hmong-American artist and illustrator based in the vibrant Twin Cities of Minnesota. Her mesmerizing artwork is a captivating celebration of joy and positivity, skillfully crafted to infuse light and happiness into those within her community. Learn more about Sheena at www.pabgha.com. 

Tell us a little about yourself! Who is your family/community, where are you located, what kind of art do you do?

My name is Sheena Vang (she/her), and I’m a Hmong American and visual artist in Saint Paul, MN. I create cute, bubbly, and whimsical watercolor illustrations with a tint of happiness. My father served in the Secret War with General Vang Pao, and my parents immigrated here as refugees. I’m the seventh oldest in my family. As for the community, I am a day-maker— giving kindness has a ripple effect.

What does the 50th anniversary of Southeast Asian American refugee resettlement mean to you?

The 50th anniversary of Southeast Asian American refugee resettlement means survival and success, bringing forward our legacy and celebrating our achievements as a collective, holistic, and whole community. My parents are survivors of the Secret War and Vietnam War. They flourished through the hardships and moved to the United States to start a new life. That’s courage and bravery. I appreciate them doing that because my siblings and I can now succeed in pursuing professions that didn’t exist for my parents.

What organization are you supporting with this fundraiser, and why does their work speak to you?

I chose APIA MN Film Collective as my organization. They provide programs and opportunities for marginalized and historically underrepresented communities, specifically Southeast Asian Americans, to learn about what it takes to be a filmmaker, producer, etc. One of their members worked with this film, “Bitterroot,” which came out. I support their mission and values, and I hope they continue showcasing more amazing things. It’s easier to get into this field with the proper resources.

What do you hope for Southeast Asian American communities for the next 50 years?

I hope our community continues growing and learning from one another, embracing cultural identity and heritage preservation. I also encourage us to continue being activists and advocate what is correct, fair, and accurate for the community’s wealth.

What do you want the world to know about Southeast Asian American refugee communities?

I want the world to know that Southeast Asian American refugees are notable— we are a hardworking, intelligent, persevering, thoughtful, and loving community. Despite the limitations (lack of equity in resources), we will continue flourishing wherever we go.

Statement about the fundraiser piece: I drafted this while considering the questions of what the 50th anniversary of SEAA refugee resettlement means to me, as well as the work that SEARAC is known for. I wanted to create something to spark resonance, acceptance, and celebration through stories. As a Hmong American, textiles are prominent in my traditional clothing and tell stories of the past. If you look closely, there’s a water buffalo (strength), an elephant (community), a Hmong heart shape (kindness/love), and water flowers (beauty). The phrase “Refugee resettlement dares to start everything and everywhere again” reflects the shared experiences of many first generation refugees.

SHOP SHEENA’S DESIGNS:

You can find t-shirts and tote bags with these designs on them on our Bonfire store AND new for this year, find stickers, posters, magnets, prints, and notebooks on our Redbubble shop.

Check out additional 50th Anniversary Fundraiser interviews with our artists here:

Celebrating SEAA courage and bravery with Sheena Vang
Holding onto culture through art with HNin Nie
Khou Vue is celebrating SEAA perseverance
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
Embracing the generational shifts of SEAAs with Nha Hoang