Flip the Fish

Back then, villagers in Hong Kong would have to use their boats to sail vast distances across the sea to go fishing. As steamed fish is a significant part of a Hongkongers diet, it is forbidden to flip the fish over to eat the other side as it symbolizes capsizing the fisherman’s boat. Next time you go to a Chinese restaurant, notice how the servers prepare and debone your steamed fish. -Erin Lam

Erin Lam is a Mississauga born, Chinese Canadian artist who has a deep passion for storytelling through art. She creates using both visual and performing arts, including sculpture, video, and dance. As a child, she was privileged with access to many different art forms which fostered her love for art. “Flip the Fish” is a collaboration between Erin Lam and Midi Onodera.