A Woven Memory from Taiwan

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This is a maquette of the traditional Taiwanese rain and field garb woven from natural materials to deflect water and block the sun. I believe it is called the Suoyi (蓑衣) cape and the Douli (斗笠) hat.

I was fascinated with this object as a child! It was given to my mother by her uncle when she was just a young lady. Tucked safely away in a drawer, my mother would bring it out and delicately unwrap it from its protective cloth.

She would tell me that she remembers her grandfather wearing these exact things when going out to the field or into the rain. My mom would tell me how heavy the cape was and all the work the wearers would do when adorned in it.

I would listen, enthralled. This special object was a way of connecting my mother to her childhood in Taiwan and a means for her to share family history with her child.

For me, this object gave me a sense of belonging to a culture from afar, and a chance to see my mother’s smile. When I became an adult, I surprised her by archival framing it. It has hung on the wall in my childhood home ever since.

Photo caption if needed.

Rena Charles• Age 45

Rena Charles (Age 45) is an artist and gallery owner in Sonoma County. Her mother immigrated from Taiwan, and her African American father was from North Carolina. Raised in Florida, with a rich heritage blending African-American and Taiwanese roots, Rena’s art reflects this vibrant tapestry. She pours her influences into each piece, using rough-hewn materials, a freehand approach, a lively color palette, and a spirit that invites connection.