Relational Art

How I gather

Drawn to the themes of identity and relations, my art explores ways to act as a quiet catalyst for better human connection in its various forms and contexts. Whether I am healing my own family relations, fostering a support network for creatives, or serving questions to strangers during a meal—my artistic mission is to create gateways to forge more intentional connections with one another. We need each other / community to give meaning to life.

Meeting Memories

Documentary
Through the memories and memorabilia of my relatives in Taiwan, this documentary follows the rituals I took to grow a relationship with my long-deceased maternal grandparents. Simultaneously, growing and healing my relationship with my existing family.

Side Projkt.Club (SP.C)

Community
A periodic guided critique session held in New York between casual artists and art-seekers across disciplines. Following our motto to Be Fearlessly Imperfect, presenters bring in personal projects that are scrappy, almost-there, or stuck. Through facilitated discussions, SP.C inspires artists to bring their projects to unexpected heights, spark creativity for participants, and foster new relations.

Our Trace of Time

Dining Experience
Disguised as a three-course meal, a series of carefully curated questions guide guests on an emotional journey of introspection and gratitude. Closing the experience, an unexpected trace of time is revealed and gifted.

  • 2024

    • (Upcoming) Documentary Film Critique @Afterthought, SVA affiliate, NYC

    2023

    2019

    • Our Trace of Time: Nostalgia, ticketed experience produced by Flower Shop Collective (FSC) in Brooklyn

    • The NoPro Review, ‘Our Trace of Time’Uses Experience as a Vehicle for Connection, by Allie Marotta

    • Our Trace of Time, ticketed experience produced by FSC @Cafe con Libros, Brooklyn, NY

    • The Uncommon Art Salon, hosted by the Carty Group @The American Irish Historical Society, NYC

    • Joined Flower Shop Collective, Brooklyn-based Art Collective

    2017

    • Touchable Art Exhibit @Granoff Center for the Creative Arts, Providence, RI

  • "[Our Trace of Time] is looking to recreate everyday social situations under the lens of art and is revolutionary in the manner that spectators are permitted to participate in and affect the resulting performance."
    — Allie Marotta, No Proscenium

    "Emily Kao is one of the most detailed and process-oriented designers I have had the privilege of working with... her first instinct is to ask questions regarding intention... Her attention to the important links design can offer human connection is very impressive."
    — Nadia Tahoun, Founder of Flower Shop Collective