Artist Statement: My grandfather-in-law was a master sergeant in the U.S. Army who served in Korean War and a firefighter in his community. We are so proud to say that he is the hero of our family and to our country. My vision for this Sing For Hope Piano is to show my heartfelt gratitude for our U.S. veterans and firefighters who put their lives on the line to protect our lives and freedom. The red poppies are a tradition to honor our veterans and red roses are to honor our firefighters. I chose to accompany them with joyful colors to illustrate the beautiful blooms of bouquet of flowers with green leaves. I am forever grateful for our heroes who made their sacrifices for our country.
Laishan Mui Ito is an artist, graphic designer, and scientific illustrator based in Los Angeles. She graduated from Art Center College of Design with a Bachelor’s degree of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. She has worked for the University of California Riverside Entomology Department and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Entomology Department as a scientific illustrator for research and publications. When Laishan is not designing in front of the computer, her choice of media includes stippling with pen and ink or painting with acrylic. With her graphic design disciplines and usage of vibrant colors, Laishan applies her skills onto municipal commissioned public art and beautification projects throughout the cities. Some of her works can be seen across many communities such as the City of Arcadia, Azusa, Burbank, El Monte, Glendale, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, and West Central L.A.
