About the Exhibition
December 14, 2025 11am - 1pm
Desc. coming soon
From the mentor, Saymoukda and Simone:
"To be coming soon."
PRE-ORDER
Lao Magazine
Pre-order a copy of កូន Koun: A Khmer Youth Archive today and support our youth program.
SEA Us Write & Design creates inclusive, culturally rooted spaces for Southeast Asian youth to grow as writers, artists, and leaders. Its first group, the Khmer Youth Circle, offers a supportive community where Khmer youth can explore identity, build relationships, and develop creative skills while honoring their heritage.
From the mentor Sara Gregor: "This magazine is organized into two parts: Inheritance and Legacy.
Together, Inheritance and Legacy uphold the idea of heritage, which is what we explored this summer: our cultural heritage. While I’m still on my own journey of reconnecting with that heritage, I’ve learned there’s room for each and every one of us to be here. We have a right to learn about our past — about the traditions, stories, and histories that brought us to this moment. We are cultural bearers, and we can invite others into our culture, whether or not we speak the same language.
At its heart, this work — being a mentor — is about accessibility. No matter their background, I wanted every student to have an experience that felt full of possibility: a chance to engage with culture through art, expression, and reflection. What I didn’t expect was how much I would need this space, too. This became a reminder that we all deserve to belong — to feel seen, to feel whole, to exist as we are.
Even when our stories are whispered, hidden, or carried in silence, inheritance lives within us. It’s not only what we receive from our families — it’s what we absorb from the world around us. It lingers in our bodies, our dreams, and our imagination."
Proceeds will go back to cover the cost of printing the book. After the cost is covered, all extra proceeds will go back to the youths and they can decide whether to donate the funds or use it to support their artistic career.
events
Opening Reception
Sunday, December 14th, 11am-1pm
XIA Books, Cafe & Gallery
Join us for the opening reception of the Lao youth on Sunday, December 14th, 11 am-1 pm, to celebrate our Lao youths in their artistic and creative careers.
Light food is provided. Drinks can be purchased at the cafe.
meet the artists
meet the
artists
meet the mentors
meet the
mentors
Saymoukda Vongsay (Writing Mentor)
she/hers
Saymoukda is a Lao-American playwright whose work has been presented by the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center (NY), Theater Mu (MN), Lower Depth Theater (LA), Asian Improv Arts (IL), and elsewhere. In her first children’s book of the same name, Vongsay reveals glimpses into her childhood as a young Lao girl navigating America with her displaced family. Touching on universal and present topics like refugee experiences, class, and family, the story connects with children and adults of all ages. Although the book was released 2018, its inception spans even farther.
Simone Chounlamontry
pronouns
More info to come soon.
Graphic Designer
pronouns
More info to come soon.
Chue Zeng Yang (Photographer)
he/him
Chue Zeng Yang is the founder and owner of the creative studio Spiritfolk. He is an independent art director, photographer, designer, and filmmaker based in the Twin Cities. With a name inspired by the Hmong word for “story,” Spiritfolk is dedicated to crafting meaningful, visually compelling narratives that honor cultural heritage while connecting with contemporary audiences.
Chue brings over a decade of industry experience to Spiritfolk, having worked as both an agency and in-house creative for a diverse range of clients—from international brands to local Minnesota businesses and organizations. His approach is marked by a thoughtful blend of artistry and strategy, ensuring that every project resonates with its intended audience while maintaining a clear, authentic voice.
Driven by a commitment to storytelling, Chue uses photography, film, design, and art direction to give shape to ideas and experiences that matter. His creative vision is informed by his Hmong heritage, his community ties, and his belief in the power of design to move people, build understanding, and inspire action. Through Spiritfolk, he strives to collaborate with brands, organizations, and fellow creatives to make work that is both beautiful and meaningful.