Mao Lor: A Journey through Hmoob Paj Ntaub
February 10 – May 26, 2024
Mao Lor is an artist and maker who has been creating paj ntaub (Hmong textiles) that convey the vitality of Hmoob art, history, and culture for over forty years. The exhibition features two-dozen of Lor’s intricately hand-sewn and embroidered artworks, which include pieces using traditional methods and patterns and those that reflect contemporary innovations used for storytelling.
About the Exhibition
As a teenager, Mao Lor was forced to flee her home country of Laos following the end of the Secret War in Laos and the Vietnam War in 1975. She had begun learning the skills and concepts for creating paj ntaub as a young girl from her mother, and she further developed her craft while living in a refugee camp in Thailand. Since immigrating to Green Bay, Wisconsin in 1984, Mao has created hundreds of textiles which she and her family have sold at art fairs throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest, including the Paine.
The exhibition is a reflection on Hmoob paj ntaub. Built through collaboration, it is co-curated by historian Chong Ntxoo Moua and artist Ger Xiong/Ntxawg Xyooj and includes a documentary film by Soua Vang. By centering Mao’s work, and highlighting a new co-created contemporary piece by Lor and Xiong, the exhibition uses paj ntaub to ask questions about the past, present, and future of Hmoob art, storytelling, and representation.
The exhibition will serve as the backdrop for the Rooms of Blooms floral show, presented the first two weekends in March.
Ken Cravillion 
Ken Cravillion 
Stolley Studios 
Stolley Studios 
Stolley Studios 
Stolley Studios Sponsored by
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Mao Lor: A Journey through Hmoob Paj Ntaub is organized by the Paine Art Center and Gardens. The exhibition is supported by ArtsCore, a partnership between the Paine, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh Area School District, and Appleton Area School District.
Become a Paine Member!
The best way to experience Mao Lor: A Journey through Hmoob Paj Ntaub and all the offerings of the Paine is by becoming a Member. You’ll receive free admission to the exhibition, discounted reservations and purchases, and invitations to educational programs and special events for an entire year!