Two Halves of a Whole

Artist

Chyna Mapel

Year

2025

Location

Art in Action Tent, south of Old Town Square on Mountain Avenue

Description

Chyna's design Two Halves of a Whole represents the Asian American experience, as seen through the eyes of someone mixed race living in Colorado. Two trees--cherry and pine, both stand on rocky terrain in difficult yet savagely beautiful conditions, reaching out for connection. Touching on the isolation that can come with being mixed race as well as being geographically separated from a large Asian American community. Two Halves of a Whole validates that experience while highlighting the unexpected blessing of existing in the space of two rich and intertwined cultures. With whispers of the alpine and misty mountaintops, the two trees reach toward each other and toward the heavens--day and night, yin and yang come together to create harmony.

Loveland artist Chyna Mapel has worn many hats over the years -- from musician, horticulturist, and printmaker, to now, where she enjoys life as a yoga teacher and creator. Chyna finds her inspiration in the natural world (she loves a good plant friend!), music, movement, and most of all: community. She enjoys pairing vibrant art with positive affirmations and believes that everyone could use a reminder to love themselves. 

Photos