Harry Gao He/they sunshine-gao.com sunshine.gaoh@gmail.com Comic Arts In-person, Hybrid BIO Harry Gao was born in China and raised in Indiana and Kentucky. Once, they studied moral philosophy and ecology; cooked noodles; and sold produce. Now, they draw stories (under the name 'sunshine gao') examining home, the heart, everyday ethics–and the frailty of the narratives we tell about them. In spite of everything, they believe the world can be made a beautiful place. TEACHING PHILOSOPHY & MENTORSHIP Ask yourself: why are you making the work you're making? Who is it for? Why does it matter to them, and how? I firmly believe that art is about communication and connection, rather than commercial success. Make good and worthwhile work first; everything else follows. In my own life and practice, I value curiosity, introspection, discipline, and skill. I enjoy cultivating these things with students and pushing them farther than they think they can go...if the interest and commitment are there.