I often enjoy observing sensitive topics that are frequently misunderstood due to cultural differences. Take food culture for example, while the stench of pig feet may cause sudden discomfort to some, in many asian cultures this particular animal part can be the most sought after dish in a family gathering, whether it be on a home dining table, or a fancy restaurant. Sushi restaurants are unmistakably some of the most expensive and luxurious dining experiences a city could offer. The delicate presentation, taste of the fresh sea straight to your palettes… but wait a second, have you noticed that under all of their menus, something along the lines of ‘Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illnesses‘ is just like a ‘smoking kills’ sign when you purchase a packet of Marlboro? So I suggest, next time when you visit a fancy sushi place or hear about people enjoying pig feet, try swapping the two in your brain
Zihe Gong is a illustrator, designer and mother of a cute poodle named Milu. Having graduated with a BA degree in Art from the University of California, Irvine, and is currently pursuing her MFA degree in furniture design at the Rhode Island School of Design.