Constellations – The Flow of Belonging is a generative art piece by EEPMON that visualizes Canada as a fluid constellation of families, symbolizing the dynamic movement of people and their contributions to the nation’s cultural regeneration. The work transforms transcribed census data from Library and Archives Canada (LAC) into a narrative that explores mobility, diversity, and resilience.

The visualization features flowing patterns and family units that grow brighter and more interconnected over time. Inspired by Norman Takeuchi’s 1970 Expo Bus, which connected diverse communities across Canada, Constellations reimagines this mobility for the digital age. Colours pulse through particle-like connections, representing the cultural and social links forged by communities. By showcasing these groups as constellations of renewal, the piece aligns with themes of multicultural identity and systemic regeneration, offering a perspective on the vast stories found within LAC’s archival collections. Constellations – The Flow of Belonging was exhibited at the Canada Pavilion during Expo 2025 Osaka.

Software
Processing (https://processing.org)

Above: Census data test output

Constellations – The Flow of Belonging & Chinese Exclusion

This extension of the project specifically references the Chinese Exclusion Act period (1923-1947). While maintaining the theme of communal interconnectedness, it introduces sharp red strokes to symbolize the dispersal and exclusion of Chinese immigrants during this era. These erratic visuals serve to evoke the volatility of systemic barriers in contrast to the core theme of unity.

Software
Processing (https://processing.org)

Constellations – The Flow of Belonging & Chinese Exclusion Video

Constellations – The Flow of Belonging 3min Video

Looking Within the Shadows: Repeal and Beyond is a mural created during EEPMON’s tenure as the inaugural Creator-in-Residence at Library and Archives Canada. The work is informed by extensive archival research and dialogue with the Chinese Canadian community, drawing upon historical records of Chinese immigration to Canada between 1886 and 1949. These records document a period defined by the Chinese Head Tax, the mandatory registration of C.I. certificates, the separation of families, and the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1923, which was repealed following World War II.

Through vivid, layered imagery inspired by archival documents and oral histories, the mural evokes themes of resilience, resolve, and hope. It features Douglas Jung, Canada’s first Chinese Canadian Member of Parliament, whose advocacy was instrumental in the advancement of equal rights. The piece invites viewers to reflect on lives that persevered amidst systemic control and fear, honouring an ongoing journey toward equity and belonging.

On October 14th, Librarian and Archivist of Canada Leslie Weir hosted a hybrid event marking the conclusion of EEPMON’s tenure as Library and Archives Canada’s (LAC) inaugural Creator-in-Residence. During a conversation with Ms. Weir, the artist shared insights from the eight-month residency and addressed inquiries from both on-site and virtual attendees.

The event featured the presentation of a final project showcase, where EEPMON unveiled a suite of digital and generative artworks:

Echoes of Silence & Surveillance, 2025
A generative motion graphics piece drawing from the Register of Chinese Immigrants to Canada (1886–1949).

Looking Within the Shadows: Repeal & Beyond, 2025
A digital illustration informed by archival research and community dialogue, referencing historical records of Chinese immigration.

Constellations – The Flow of Belonging, 2025
A generative animation based on LAC census data, which also debuted at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.

Learn more about the LAC Creator in Residence.