Artist Spotlight
Hana Rafee | @hanarafee.art
Artist Spotlight: Hana Rafee
Hana Rafee is a multi-media artist and graphic designer based in the Chicagoland area. A second-generation Asian American and eldest daughter, Hana brings a “get it done” energy to everything they make — while honoring the communities that raised them. Drawn to storytelling and the magic in small moments, Hana illustrates the connections that shape who we are. Instagram: @hanarafee.art
A Search, A Spark, A Zine: Finding Hana Rafee
Some collaborations begin with a plan. Others begin with a feeling that something shouldn’t be created alone.
As I read my mother's translated essays, I wasn't only uncovering her voice—I was discovering stories that deserved to be experienced from more than one perspective. Her words had already crossed one boundary, from Korean into English. But with each essay, I realized translation alone wasn't enough. Her words stirred images and emotions I couldn't express visually myself. Her words stirred images and emotions I couldn't express visually myself.
I wasn't looking for someone to illustrate my mother's essays. I was looking for an artist whose own experiences might resonate with them. I hoped those shared experiences would bring an authenticity to the work—revealing emotions and details that neither translation nor words alone could fully express.
So I began exploring the work of emerging Asian American artists in Chicago, hoping to find someone whose artistic voice resonated with the emotional landscape of my mother's essays.
That’s where I found Hana.
Her work felt honest, expressive, quietly bold. I didn’t overthink it—I just sent an email. No expectations—just a message and a bit of hope.
October 15, 2025
Building Poor Answer Together
We finally met on Zoom, and the conversation came easily. We talked about art, storytelling, and process—our shared curiosity, a willingness to experiment, and what Poor Answer could become.
I realized I wasn't looking for an illustrator. I was looking for someone who could enter into conversation with my mother's words.
Hana became the first artist to join Urikkiri. She didn't simply illustrate the essays—she translated them into a visual language that invites readers to encounter my mother's voice in a new way.
Have a question or interested in collaborating? Email: partnerships@urikkiri.com
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