In the upcoming Guided by Ghosts exhibition, artist Tessa Hulls goes on a journey to uncover her own ancestral Chinese history. She translates memoirs, travels to Hong Kong, and pores over yellowed research books.
We all have ghosts: those who have come before us whose memories we still hold. Their stories shape the way we move through the world. Tessa’s artwork is guided by her ghosts.
Maybe you’re curious about how your own family shapes your life, too.
“Our ancestors tell the story of where we came from; our ghosts teach us how to move forward.”
Tessa Hulls — Guided by Ghosts Exhibiting Artist
Want to learn more about your ancestors but don't know where to begin? Here are a few resources to help you get started on your journey:
- Call a family member. Find some time to learn and listen.
- Visit the Genealogical Society of Santa Cruz County at the Downtown branch of the Santa Cruz Public Library.
- Use a genetic testing service like 23andMe or Ancestry.com to find and connect with genetic relatives.
- Explore your own cultural history through stories, music, or art.
- Poke around on the newspapers.com archive.
- Check out Researchers Anonymous here at the MAH on the second Saturday of every month at 11am.
- Schedule an appointment to visit the MAH Archives