Reflection: I was, I am, I will be

Introduction

“Healing happens when we are able to incorporate the full spectrum of our experiences and integrate our collective selves. Instead of keeping parts of us in the dark, we deserve to live wholly and authentically.” — Chanel Miller

The inaugural work in the Asian Art Museum’s Wilbur Foundation Gallery introduces artist Chanel Miller, author of “Know My Name: A Memoir,” who represents healing as a process with three distinct yet interchangeable parts: reflecting on the past, being mindful in the present, and envisioning the future. In this tripartite wall mural, playful line-drawn figures illustrate the phrases “I was,” “I am,” and “I will be,” encouraging us to think of life as an endless state of becoming.

While the mural is a representation of Miller’s life experience, she also invites us to answer the unfinished sentences and to reflect on our own life trajectory. How would you answer Miller’s “I was, I am, I will be” prompt? Would your answers look like Miller’s, or would they look different?

Watch this video of Miller discussing the inspirations for I was, I am, I will be. Learn more about Miller’s work and art on Instagram.

Materials

Reflection: I was, I am, I will be worksheet or a piece of paper

Pencil, color markers, or crayons

Printer (optional)

Download the teacher packet from sidebar above for complete instructions.

Procedure

1. Print out the Reflection: I was, I am, I will be worksheet, or draw three boxes and label them with the phrases “I was,” “I am,” and “I will be.”
2. Reflect on all the changes we’ve been through over the past year and then fill in the boxes to describe your experiences. You can use words, drawings, emojis, or a combination.