Sean-Joseph Takeo Kahāokalani Choo
Shangri La: A Utopia.
Private Garden

Artist Statement

My first few visits to Shangri La were beautiful, filled with art, puppets, epic sunsets, conversations and epic grinds. When I started preparing for this project, I invited my partner to join during one of my site visits. I asked what they thought of the place, and they mentioned feeling uneasy with the mish-mash of artworks from around the world, its Orientalist vibes. I hadn’t stepped into the space with a critical eye, just with an aesthete’s one, and their comments made me rethink my approach and process.

Talk story is something I love doing. Perhaps it has something to do with growing up surrounded by storytellers: not by professional filmmakers or actors or novelists, mind you, just ʻohana sharing who we are by talking about ancestors, each other. I love to linger in places and chat with and listen to folx from all different walks of life: I have a curious personality. I also strongly believe in the discipline and art of listening, and how that simple act of listening can bring a blessing of sorts to those engaged. It shows respect. Now, I know a conversation cannot change the world overnight, but I know it can definitely soften one’s heart, and promote understanding. I believe more understanding, listening and aloha is needed in this day and age.

All my experiences, my family and my mixed background inform the structure of this piece as well as the content. As you watch, I hope you consider what it means for you to reconnect to those who have come before, and what it means to mālama honua wherever your travels take you.