On view September 19 – November 14, 2025, in the Catacombs Gallery.

‍

The Filipino American experience is a story of cultural fusion. With a heritage woven from Malay, Chinese, Spanish, American, and indigenous influences, Filipinos have cultivated a rich cultural tapestry. As immigrants, Filipino Americans have further diversified this vibrant heritage, creating a natural predisposition to adaptation and an appreciation of inter-cultural exchange. This has led to Filipino Americans often finding themselves at a crossroads, negotiating change while maintaining deep-rooted cultural connections. This experience provides fertile ground for artistic exploration.

Lumpia Fusion celebrates this fluid identity by encouraging bold experimentation and unexpected pairings. What new forms emerge when sound or movement intertwine with fabric? What groundbreaking creations can arise from a collaboration between a visual artist and a scientist? How can traditional techniques, such as wood carving, be reimagined through the lens of contemporary art? This exhibition celebrates the beauty that emerges from the fusion of minds and cultures, sparking meaningful conversations.

‍

US-based artist Zarina Natividad Docken’s diverse experiences in mathematics, art, technology, and design inform her unique artistic perspective. Born in Manila, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of the Philippines, where she also cultivated her passion for theater as a playwright, designer, and actor. After immigrating to Chicago in the early 1990s and establishing a career in technology, she pursued a Master’s in Design from IIT Institute of Design.

Watercolors became her entry point back into the world of art in 2019. Her work, characterized by luminous transparency and dynamic layers, has garnered recognition in national and international exhibitions and awards, including the International Watercolour Masters competition in England.

Zarina extends her passion for the arts beyond her studio. In 2024, she co-founded Likhaya, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering artists through entrepreneurship and community. As a curator, she leverages this experience to foster creativity and support fellow artists. Her commitment reflects her belief in the transformative power of art.