November has always been awkward for me, as it is my birthday month. I still remember an old birthday photo of myself as a child: I cut the cake with my dad by my side, smiling and looking at my reaction while other kids clapped and stared at me. The photograph feels like a stop-motion image. I was contorted, my head down, with my eyes looking up at the camera (probably because someone was calling for 'look at here'). I felt embarrassed to be the centre of attention. As a kid, I hated birthdays. I was shy, maybe an introvert.
November is my birthday month, and I often feel uncomfortable. I bumble with whether to celebrate or stay home alone and usually regret sending out invitations. Hosting the event causes me a lot of stress, but once I'm at the party, the joy of being with friends makes me forget my usual worries. It's a paradox of my discomfort.
Strangely, I am writing to invite you to an event where I will be one of the centre of attention: an afternoon of poetry and art performance. This event holds that feeling again as it falls in November. However, I am delighted because I will recite a few of my poems, including one titled 'Venice', which I wrote after my first visit there. I am returning to Venice for the first time to read this poem. It feels like celebrating my birthday in a city that inspired me.
The poetry reading will be part of the closing party for Salon des Etrangers, an art show featuring many talented artists, including my photography. Moreover, in November, I am happy to share that my artwork Exposé has been selected for exhibition in the Curated Hang alongside prints from some of my favourite artists, including Tracey Emin, Paula Rego, and the Chapman Brothers. This show will take place at the Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair.
Yes, I am sending out two special invitations this month, and I like to think of myself as a rising star. Your presence at one of the events would be a wonderful birthday gift, as it brings me joy to celebrate with friends.
I hope to see you there!
Alice Hsieh
Finissage Party
Salon des Etrangers
Created by Vanya Balogh. In association with Siger Gallery and Venice Art Factory
22nd November
Start 4 PM
Venice, Italy
21st - 24th November
London's Historic Royal Arsenal, London, UK
SE18 6HD
Tickets are available here.
