RSM Art Gallery Exhibit: We Are The FOOS by Alumnus Artist Johnny Haiki

We are excited to welcome alumnus artist Johnny Haiki BS ’18, MBA ’19 to the RSM Art Gallery! Please join us for the opening of We Are The FOOS on Thursday, October 20, where Haiki will present paintings, manga prints, and sculptures from his narrative-based project. The artist talk will start at 5:00 p.m., followed by a reception. The exhibit will be on view until November 27, 2022.

We Are The FOOS
Paintings, Sculpture, Manga, and Video 
by Jonathan Yu “Haiki” BS ’18, MBA ‘19
October 20 - November 27, 2022

Artist Talk & Opening Reception
Thursday, October 20: Talk at 5:00 p.m., Opening reception to follow
View the Recorded Artist Talk

About the exhibit

Alumnus artist Johnny Haiki BS ’18, MBA ’19, will present paintings, manga prints, and sculptures from his narrative-based project - We Are The FOOS. The word FOOS comes from the pairs of Fu lion statues that symbolize prosperity and traditionally guarded Imperial palaces, tombs and temples and whose presence has spread throughout Asia. The word FOO can also be read as a transliteration of the Chinese Character Fu which means happiness, blessings, and good fortune. Haiki combines Chinese mythology and pop culture imagery in his artwork to reflect on his experience as a foreigner adapting to American culture with the love and support of his multicultural friend group. 

A multimedia artist and entrepreneur passionate about socio-cultural inclusivity, Haiki was born in Taipei and raised in Manila. Haiki currently works at Zeta Global at NYC as a Business Systems Analyst, but spends most of his time developing his Music and Art. Primarily a singer and songwriter in the group, TORSADES, Haiki is in the pursuit of bridging his music with his art. When the pandemic struck, he realized that live events for music were going to die out, he took to the brush and canvas and started painting his favorite creature, The FOOS. As the NFT scene rose, he saw the opportunity to develop his moniker- the FOOS, into a Manga that he eventually will turn into an Anime film to be scored by TORSADES. Haiki's ambition requires a high sense of dedication and disciple, Life is always going to get harder, the one thing we can do is to KEEP PUSHIN'

Other Events - hosted by the Valente Center for Arts and Sciences

Please visit the Valente Center's website for information about an Interview (October, 24 at 5:00pm) and Panel Discussion (October 25, 2:00-3:20pm) with Johnny Haiki.