Kao Lee Thao is best known for her expressively fluid style that echos folktales, themes, and patterns passed down verbally from generation to generation in the Hmong culture. Her journey began when her mother fleeing the jungles of Laos crossed the Mekong River while she was cradled in her womb. Her family escaped to America with $5 to begin a new life in Minnesota. Storytelling is the driving force behind most of her paintings and recent public art work. During her process the faces of the community inspire her to create pieces that unify many voices. Kao recently designed a Peanuts “Lucy” statue which was a gift to Changsha, China where the statue is installed. The statue was created by TivoliToo.
Kao Lee Thao
