For me, coming home does not mean returning to a physical place, but to the people whom I love the most: my family, extended relatives, friends, neighbours, and colleagues, around whom I can relax and be myself. They are my place of comfort, filled with many profound memories.
Noah Chan
Digital artist from Myanmar
About the series
"salmon 85"
Salmon 85 blends five illustrations, each with its own unique meaning and symbolism, drawing inspiration from the remarkable journey of salmon. They migrate from the ocean yet they never forget to return to their freshwater birthplace. They always find their way back home despite the dangers. Myanmar lives are not much different.
During the coup in Myanmar, numerous individuals have resorted to hiding, fleeing, and even migrating to other countries for survival, paralleling the journey of salmon. We departed our homes with the hope of one day returning, yet the path back is fraught with challenges. Like salmon navigating upstream from the ocean through rivers, battling against currents to their spawning grounds, this journey demands immense determination and effort. Predatory bears lie in wait for these fish. Similarly, we, the people of Myanmar, confront the junta from various corners of the globe, each bearing unique responsibilities. Our unified aim is to return to our homeland, to reunite with our families. Our journey, much like that of the salmon, is filled with obstacles, particularly for those at the forefront of the struggle. Despite the hardships, we hold onto the belief that we will soon make our way back home.
Each title signifies a pivotal location or destination, mirroring the journey of salmon as they traverse from one place to another, ultimately reaching their final destination.
This project pays tribute not just the revolutionaries but also those who have moved abroad to work for their families. Like me, who has moved away from home, it is my hope that these illustrations offer a window into my current struggles and emotions.