No. 130: Sara Tang – From Alienation to Artistic Affirmation

In a world where art transcends boundaries and storytelling heals, Sara Tang stands as a beacon of inspiration. This week on the RuggedAngel Cast, I had the privilege of diving deep into Sara’s journey as a multidisciplinary artist and cultural worker. Her story is one of resilience, community, and the transformative power of art.

Sara’s path to becoming an artist was not straightforward. Initially, she didn’t even consider herself an artist. It wasn’t until she was invited to join the #notwhite collective that she began to see her true potential. The collective, a group dedicated to promoting racial equity in the arts, provided Sara with a sense of belonging and validation. “The ladies of the Not White Collective have really saved my life in so many ways. They have believed in me, they’ve encouraged me, they’ve helped me to feel human, to feel worthy, valuable, and like, wow, to know my worth,” Sara shares.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Sara’s work is her use of coffee as a medium. What started as a simple experiment turned into a signature technique. “I’ve always loved the color brown because it’s the color of earth and horses. I was a horse girl growing up. I was just like, yeah, brown, you know, and the brown bottom of my cup, I was, you know, painting with watercolors. And I was like, oh, let me dip my brush in there and put on. And it was like, it was just so magical,” Sara explains. This innovative approach not only adds a unique touch to her art but also aligns with her commitment to sustainability and reusing materials.

Sara’s dedication to promoting racial equity in the arts is deeply personal. Growing up in a mixed-race household and experiencing the alienation that often comes with it, she understands the importance of representation and community. Her work is not just about creating beautiful pieces; it’s about drawing people into a deeper empathic encounter with themselves and their communities. “People begin to thrive when they feel truly cared for,” she says, emphasizing the healing power of authentic connections and storytelling.

In this episode, Sara also touches on her involvement with other collectives and initiatives, such as Jaded and Anthropology of Motherhood. These platforms allow her to continue her mission of cultural exchange and education, fostering a more inclusive and understanding world.

As you listen to this episode, you’ll be moved by Sara’s story, her passion for art, and her unwavering commitment to making a difference. Whether you’re an artist, an activist, or someone seeking inspiration, Sarah Tang’s journey will resonate with you.

Don’t miss this enlightening conversation on the RuggedAngel Cast. Tune in now and let Sara’s story inspire you to find your own path to healing and creativity.