We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tao Ho. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tao below.
Hi Tao, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
At various stages of life, and even now, I find myself continually immersed in this feeling. Sometimes, I discover peace; other times, it eludes me.
For a long while, I doubted my work and questioned the reactions of others, ensnaring myself in an indescribable sense of constraint. Through this constraint, I gradually realized: why can’t I treat myself with the same fairness and kindness, and stand by my own side?
My practice is like a diary—devoid of right or wrong, good or bad. Each entry, whether perfect or flawed, is a trace of my existence.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Tao HO is a musician and, darkroom printer, photo artist based in Queens, New York City.
His sound and visual practice serves as the subtext that fills in the blanks of language expression, drawing from the interplay between hearing and sight. It creates a self-reflective monologue, chasing and drifting with the movement of time, recording the ineffable and invisible inner mind. This practice exemplifies his identity as an outsider and explores the relationship between self and others, moving from fierce battles to eventual reconciliation.
The juxtaposition of short sentences and sound-making, filled with conflict and contradiction, comfort and calm, creates a dynamic and emotionally resonant atmosphere. Along with the intention to let the sounds flow naturally, imparts an organic and spontaneous quality to the process.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Working and living in the heart of the city, I find myself surrounded by a tapestry of noise—some of it from the world outside, some from within. I’ve come to realize that the spaces we inhabit and the sounds that envelop us weave themselves into the fabric of our being, shaping us in ways we may not even perceive.
As both an artist and a person navigating this world, I’ve come to see importance of retreating inward. The city hums with endless possibilities, the digital sphere buzzes with distractions, and yet, amidst this cacophony, I often find my mind stretched and pulled to taut. When the mind is burdened, the simple joys around me seem to fade. Though it might sound like a cliché, I am learning that finding inner stillness and maintaining mental focus are essential.
Placing one’s feelings at the forefront is essential. In a world where connection is constant—whether through words or through artistic practice/creation-can be overwhelming. Over time, various emotions accumulate, eventually forming a weight that’s hard to bear. But then, a revelation: I am my own, sovereign over this moment, this space—whether it be the landscape of my mind or the room I inhabit. I need no permission to prioritize my inner world. Regardless of the chaos that surrounds me, I can carve out a sanctuary where I can breathe.
For too long, I think I’ve been like a dog chasing its tail. Many of my own practice began with good intentions, involving significant time and effort, but in striving for my idea of perfection, I often lost the joy that sparked them to life. Now, I strive for simplicity, letting go of the need to achieve some flawless ideal. What matters more is whether I can remain present, focused, and at peace during the creative process. I’m learning to release my grip, to allow the imperfect to be, and to find contentment not in completion, but in the journey itself.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I started as a bass player in multiple bands for about 10 years. After numerous changes in members, I became a solo artist shortly after graduating from grad school.
I enjoyed creating music alone for a couple of years, but I have since come to realize that playing and collaborating with others—opening up boundaries and limits and sometimes surprising ourselves—is the most beautiful and valuable experience.
It is always fun to connect with each other via sound. I am open to collaborating with people who love to do improvisations, noise, as well as artists working with different mediums who would like to explore sound and space.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.htaoart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toseiho/
- Other: https://ningen-hyouryuu.bandcamp.com/music
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