Based on in-depth research, the PUPPET THEATER: History of Chinese Immigration painting series reflects the context and impact of the Chinese Exclusion Act. The visual style takes inspiration from folk arts traditions, including Chinese shadow puppetry and European/American marionette.

lily honglei, Chinese American, Chinese immigration history, LA Chinese Massacre 1871
PUPPET THEATER: Los Angeles Chinatown, 1871
Lily Honglei, Chinese American artist, Chinese American history, Chinese Exclusion Acts, Rock Springs 1881
PUPPET THEATER: Rock Spring,1881
Lily Honglei, Chinese American art, Asian American Artist, Chinese Exclusion Act, immigrant artist
PUPPET THEATER: Hunting in Washinton State, 1880
Lily Honglei, Chinese American artist, Asian American artist, Chinese Exclusion Acts, Angel Island CA
PUPPET THEATER: Angel Island
Lily Honglei, Chinese American artist, Chinese immigrant artist, Asian American artist, Chinese Exclusion Acts
PUPPET THEATER: Alien Invasion

Acknowledgement

PUPPET THEATER: History of Chinese Immigration research materials include Ghosts of Gold Mountain by Gordon H Chang and The Chinese Must Go by Beth Lew-Williams.