Origin Story
Miako P.
wood-burning/Black Walnut Wood
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This piece highlights the courage it takes to step beyond the familiar and comfortable in pursuit of a better life. Many Muay Thai fighters in Thailand come from the hill tribes of Chiang Mai bordering Myanmar, some being from the Karen tribe. An unrecognized group by the Thai government, they are not given citizenship, birth certificates or any form of identification making it near impossible for them to get jobs and better their lives. Over the past few years, I’ve supported local orphanages in Chiang Mai, where children are given opportunities to transform their lives through this sport. Last year, I had my first professional Muay Thai fight, donating my winnings to the orphanage where I trained. Despite limited material possessions, the villages are surrounded by breathtaking landscapes of rice fields and fruit trees, and the sense of community is remarkably warm and close-knit.
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Creativity to me is expressing emotions, experiences, and passions through your work without the need for words. It’s truly a rule-free language that fosters connections on a deeper level. To me, creativity is the purest form of self-expression which can leave an impact on others and embodies authenticity and acceptance.
