(c) Crystal Shei
I’m not going to beat around the bush, so let me introduce to you music technology expert, inventor and producer Mike Gao. The 26-year-old debuted his solo album Sun Shadows last month. His iPhone application Vocal Beater, which allows musicians to record beatboxing and instantly send themselves MIDI files, has been a success story in the market. The Southern Californian is redefining music, naturally breaking Asian stereotypes, and ultimately doing what he loves. Did I mention that he also loves K-pop group Girls Generation? Anyways, here is what the Chinese American has to say about his life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
With Mother’s Day coming up, we’d like to shine the spotlight on some particularly noteworthy Asian moms. These movers and shakers turn the Asian mom stereotype on its head!
Yoko Ono
If it’s too last minute and you are completely broke, then quick, find and upload a cute mother and daughter or son photo onto your Facebook! (And hopefully none that involve any, er, accessories like in the photo above.)
I remember when my two Norcal pledge sisters from culturally-based sorority Sigma Phi Omega called the florist to place flower orders to be delivered to their mothers for May 10, 2009. The concept was rather foreign to me because I live at home. I could easily create or hand my mother a gift in person. However, I rarely take the initiative. Now that I’m almost 21, I’m thinking of actually buying my mom a present, even though she’s rarely amused. (The so-very many times my dad would try to surprise her, it ended up being a failed mission.) It’s the well-meaning thought that counts, so always remember the real meaning behind the holiday business. Until then, here are some gift ideas (and remember, even though moms truly appreciate household appliances, let’s stay away from the vacuum cleaners, mops, and pots and pans).
I know we’re celebrating moms this weekend but this commercial made me cry.
In the words of Michelle Woo: “Google + an Asian baby? Pretty much the two greatest inventions ever.”
Some feel good indie films — and a do-good shopping fest — happening this week.
When Harry Tries to Marry, May 6: A modern Indian American bachelor (Rahul Rai) living in New York City surprises his parents and opts for an arranged marriage. Nayan Padrai directs this award winner.
The First Grader, May 13: Based on a true story, The First Grader chronicles octogenarian Maruge who decides to take advantage of the Kenyan government’s new free public schools and enroll in first grade.
True Legend, May 13: The latest action epic by Yuen Woo Ping (The Matrix trilogy, Kill Bill Volumes I and II, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) features an all-star cast, including Vincent Zhao, Jay Chou, Michelle Yeoh and David Carradine.
Thread, May 15: Indie designers are out in full force at this shopping event, held at the Lab in Orange County, Calif.
When Korean American Grace Lee‘s firstborn, Olivia, turned 1, she left her career in finance to be a stay-at-home mom. But it wasn’t long before the 33-year-old got antsy. One day, Lee, her husband and Olivia went for a drive in the family minivan. Lee turned to her husband and said, “Honey, what do you think about me designing jewelry?” He answered, “Go for it!”
And Oli + Me was born.
We got the scoop about this new fine jewelry line from Lee herself.
Artist Isabelle Thuy Pelaud.
Growing up, every girl dreams of her wedding day, her future husband, and having her own place. Now, the Asian American Women Artists Association (AAWAA) asks the question, “If you had a place of your own, what would it be?”, in A Place of Her Own, a showcase of works by 23 Asian American women artists from diverse backgrounds and generations, opening today at the SOMArts Cultural Center in San Francisco.
In a collision of media worlds, a more in-depth version of Audrey Magazine’s Olivia Munn behind the scenes photo-shoot will be premiering on MYX this Thursday, 5/5! (What better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, eh?)
Just to remind you what sorts of sexiness you’ll be catching…
More info here!
Video work thanks to Kelly Li!
Tom Kobayashi, Landscape, Manzanar Relocation Center, California. From the collection of Ansel Adams’s photographs of Japanese-American Internment at Manzanar .
While for us here at Audrey, every day is an Asian American/Pacific Islander heritage celebration, for the rest of the U.S., it’s May and that means it’s officially Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Congratulations on being us!
Audrey Magazine and KoreAm Journal invites you to a special advanced screening of The Hangover II on May 24th in LA.
Click here for more info and a chance to win!
