Obachine Restaurant Art -- I See It As Rich In Color

I was dismayed to read that Ron Chew (director of the Wing Luke Asian Museum) labels Lazaroff as a "racist" as though racism is her career pursuit.

I thought she was genuinely stung by the accusation and I was surprised that an educated man like Chew would think that resolution to conflict can be achieved by name-calling.

At the many Asian restaurants I've eaten, I recall seeing similar images, and it never crossed my mind that some of them might imply ridicule of a group of people. Lazaroff sees the print as cute and benign; Chew sees it as racist and stereotypical, and I see it as rich in color and somewhat inviting, and would unhesitatingly join the man in the print for a cup of tea if it was offered to me.

I respect Chew's view, but I hope he doesn't want the print destroyed. So pick up your jaw, Chew. I think if Lazaroff were a "racist," she would not be promoting the culture as beautifully as she has done at her restaurant.

Bob Donkers

Shoreline