Issue 01: Poor Answer
Explore our recent release and meet our featured artist.
“Poor Answer” — my mother’s reflections on motherhood, inherited lessons, and the courage to speak up.
Inside the Issue
A preview from the issue—one of my favorite illustrations. Explore the full edition and find yours. Unlock the full digital edition with a subscription [Subscribe], or collect individual print issues [Purchase].
Artist Spotlight: Hana Rafee
Hana Rafee | Urikkiri Issue 01: Poor Answer | April 14, 2026 | Chicago
A Search, A Spark, A Zine: Finding Hana Rafee
The best projects don’t announce themselves. Sometimes they begin with something as ordinary as a Google search—carried by a quiet hope for what might be.
When I decided to illustrate my mom’s essays, I knew I didn’t want to do it alone. I wanted to bring it to life with others—something shaped by more than just me.
My mom’s writing shaped that decision. She wasn’t trying to explain her Korean identity—she was just telling her stories: honest, specific, human. I began to see her simply as a person, and myself that way too. That’s what led me to collaborate with other Asian American artists—not to center identity, but because it naturally shapes how we see and tell stories.
I started searching—scrolling through portfolios of emerging Asian American artists in Chicago—and stumbled across the Chicago Asian Ink Collective.
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.
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.
This wasn’t just about finding an illustrator, but alignment.
Hana became the first illustrator of Poor Answer, shaping how the zine looks and feels—bringing depth and texture to what began as an idea.
She didn’t just illustrate the essays—she transformed how they’re experienced.
What’s Next
We’ve launched Poor Answer, but the story doesn’t stop here. Subscribe to get new issues, updates, and spotlights—straight to your inbox.
I’ll be sitting down with Hana soon for a deeper conversation about her work, her process, and her experience bringing the zine to life.
Interview coming soon….
Emerging, innovative Asian American creators are building meaningful work, often without the visibility they deserve. Bringing them to the forefront is intentional. It’s about supporting the people shaping culture in real time and making sure their work is seen, respected, and valued.