Artist Q&A with Hiokit Lao

Hiokit Lao is a 29-year-old, self-taught artist based in NYC. She aims to create art that ignites conversations and celebrates life, encouraging viewers to explore different narratives within the artwork. Each piece is a homage to cultural diversity, intertwining social narratives and her artistic vision. Through surreal, abstract, and vibrant elements, she aims to create meaningful art that instills hope and positivity.

Lao’s piece, entitled “Kunik,” is the cover art of Issue #17. In her own words, “it showcases two Inuit women sharing a ‘Kunik,’ symbolizing profound love and strength. Like mountains, they stand resilient, their nurturing spirits akin to the enduring peaks—steadfast, forgiving, and strong, embracing unwavering love and fortitude.”

Tell us about yourself.

Hi, I’m Hiokit Lao, a self-taught artist currently based in Washington, DC. Art has always been my safe space, a way to let my imagination run wild ever since I was a child. My style leans towards surrealism because I love translating those quirky, dreamlike visions in my head into something tangible. These days, art is more than just a passion. I want my artwork to create a sanctuary – a place where people can get lost and feel a sense of peace. My goal is to create pieces that spark conversation and remind us to embrace our unique voices because that’s what makes life colorful.

A kunik, is also known as an Eskimo kiss, nose kiss, or nose rub. You explained that in various Indigenous cultures, it is usually interpreted as a form of greeting and affection. What could other cultures learn from this intimate expression?

Every culture has its own ways of showing love, and the kunik is a beautiful example. I first learned about it from a video a few years ago, and the way it was explained really stayed with me. In my culture, we’re not super big on verbal or physical affection, so as a kid, I remember craving those tender moments with family. The kunik teaches us that affection doesn’t have to be loud or dramatic. It can be quiet and personal, and that’s just as meaningful.

I think it’s a reminder for all of us to express love in ways that feel authentic. Whether it’s a nose rub, a hug, or even a simple smile, these small acts of love can bridge gaps between us. It’s never too late to show someone you care and celebrate the love and connection in our lives because it’s a narrative we all share.

There is something so beautiful about the women in Kunik forming the peaks of a mountain. What is the first step for women towards building that strong bond of love and strength with each other?

I think women have a natural ability to nurture and form deep connections. Society often frames conversations about women around equality, and don’t get me wrong, that’s important, but sometimes we forget to celebrate the things that make women uniquely powerful.

To me, the first step is recognizing that strength in vulnerability. It’s about lifting each other up, sharing stories, and being present. For us to come together, we need to acknowledge that our empathy, compassion, and ability to love deeply are powerful strengths. This kind of connection, whether it’s between mothers and daughters, friends, or strangers, is what helps to build our communities and our world. It’s about celebrating our differences while standing united, and that’s a lesson everyone can learn from.

What does a bond like that model to future generations? Who did you imagine as the person climbing the peaks formed by the two women?

When women build strong, loving connections, it shows future generations what resilience and collaboration look like. The person climbing those peaks carries the love and strength passed down from the women before them. They are a symbol of these bonds. They represent our hope.

The mountains are challenges we face together and represent the heights we can reach when we’re united. This force of resilience and mutual support teaches all of us that strength isn’t just about power. It’s about leaning on and learning from each other. In a world that often feels divided, We need to build a world where love, compassion, and forgiveness lead the way so that those who come after us can stand on solid ground and continue climbing higher.

How would this mountain differ if there were two men engaged in the kunik? Or a man and a woman? Or two children?

The beauty of this piece is that it transcends gender. Women are creators of this world. The two women in this piece represent all people, regardless of gender, background, or identity. If there were two men, or a man and a woman, or even two children engaged in the kunik, the meaning would still hold. The essence of the bond isn’t dependent on gender. It’s about the connection, the love, and the care that people share. It’s a universal story about relationships and support.

Why does our world especially need an image of unity and strength at this moment?

Our world is in a state of constant flux, and it feels like misinformation, division, and uncertainty are everywhere in our lives. It’s easy to get lost in all of it. Before I picked up art again, I was stuck and overwhelmed by all the negativity in our world today. Art became my way of finding peace, and I think everyone needs something like that: a safe space to recharge and channel hope, both individually and collectively.

In the midst of everything, we still need reminders of hope. We need to see that love and strength are possible, even in the toughest times. But it’s not just about personal healing. It’s about coming together to rebuild trust and connection. Through actions big and small, we can remind each other that there’s still hope, even when things feel impossible. If my artwork can be that for someone, then I’ve done my job.

What do you hope people experience while taking in your beautiful image of kunik?

When people look at this piece, I hope they feel a sense of calm and peace. I want them to pause for a moment and think about the people they love and reflect on the love they’ve received in their lives. This piece is a reminder that love and connection are huge parts of our lives. We’re all human. At the end of the day, we just want to feel loved and understood.

What do you think of when you hear, “The Good Life?”

For me, “The Good Life” is all about simplicity and peace. I think of a cozy little brick cottage in the woods with a red door and a chimney puffing out smoke. It’s about having a place to call home, being surrounded by people you love, and feeling content with where you are. It’s waking up to birds chirping, sharing meals with friends, and spending evenings drawing or reading a book. The good life is about living in peace with the world around you and feeling your heart full of love.

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Thank you, Hiokit, for being a part of our growing community and for spending extra time on this Q&A with us. We wish you the best with your art, continuing to embrace peace and hope, and living a good life.