01/23/2026
XAUV (Lock): HOME, 2025. The Hmong Xauv is an iconic part of Hmong heritage and culture. While commonly worn as statement jewelry to complement traditional Hmong attire, the Xauv was originally used by oppressors to shackle Hmong slaves. The Xauv is now a symbol of resilience, freedom and self expression.
As a printmaker, Maixia makes cyantoypes as an homage to traditional hand dyed batik and indigo Hmong textiles. Maixia customizes vintage and contemporary xauv for her cyanotypes. This work also features the state flowers of California and Wisconsin, the poppy and the common blue violet. Maixia was born and raised in California and currently resides in Wisconsin.
