For countless individuals, instant noodles evoke memories of home. This seemingly humble staple transcends cultural boundaries, embodying both comfort and survival for many immigrants navigating new landscapes—they are a connection to a former life, as well as a familiar means of sustenance in a new one. Yet, instant noodles represent more than cheap, convenient, or nostalgic nourishment; they are a symbol of adaptability and resilience in the struggles of displaced peoples within a globalized world. Through our symbolic home away from home, we hope viewers may reflect on their own relationships with consumption, identity, and belonging.
Roof was conceived by artist Ong Siraphisut in collaboration with Alex Wang. Please join us for the closing reception, October 7, 2024 at Frontispace Gallery, University of Rochester, NY in savoring this exploration of heritage, survival, and the universal quest for connection through the simple act of sharing a meal.
Year: 2024
Dimension: 13.5 x 18 x 8 ft
Materials: 960 packages of instant noodles, wires, wood, screws, paint, staples, acrylic tapes.
Venue: Frontispace Gallery, University of Rochester, New York