“帝国崛起 (Empire Rising)” by Lauren YS is complete!
Internationally renowned artist Lauren YS imbued this work with Providence cultural references, paying homage to the historic Chinese and South Asian communities, the strong LGBTQ+ presence, and the longstanding history of theater downtown.
* Far left: a nod to Perry Watkins holding scissors and thread, the first Black scenic designer on Broadway (from Providence), the Port Arthur logo on the fan referencing a Chinese restaurant and dancehall that was a pillar of the Asian community and a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community to meet.
* Red swooping curtains highlight PPAC, Trinity Repertory Theatre, and others that have existed in the area.
* Background arches reference Chinese Restaurants and Dancehalls that went hand in hand with the 50’s-80's theater experience. Dancehalls also served as unique performance venues for entertainment.
* Middle two: speak to the historic nearby Chinatown, based on ancient Chinese opera figures while incorporating modern drag elements. Their robes reference various Asian communities and histories. One holds playing cards nodding to Kings and Queens of the Drag community and to the RI Bar "Kings & Queens" (1977-2002), a hub for community events.
*Second from the right: references Ladda, a local Southeast Asian Drag artist and staple of the community.
*Far right: celebrates the history of Providence’s LGBTQ+ community and theatergoers, inspired by Francis "Auriema" Renault, a 1910 Drag Performer from Providence donning jewelry worn by Beatrice Temkin, "A trailblazing LGBTQ+ ally and founding member of AIDS Project RI” and namesake of The Beatrice Hotel.
This project is a signature PVD Fest Public Art Commission (Providence ACT) championed by Providence Mayor Brett Smiley to celebrate the culture and histories of communities and following a PVDFest tradition of collaborating with national and international artists to encourage tourism and enhance public space through quality of life initiatives. Special thanks to Paolino Properties and Inoperable.