Being a first generation American Chinese, Mamie Joe was originally encouraged to be an artist by her grandfather, who had the insight to see a budding artist while she did her endless doodling on butcher paper. Her parents, however, wanted her to be involved in a more lucrative field such as science or medicine. But Mamie really had no interest in anything except art. Even when she was very young, she would sit for hours while minding her parents' small grocery store and sketched. By the time she had finished her senior year in high school, she knew that she would never be happy in life unless she could prepare for a future in art.   Select Piece by Titlefrom Mother EarthA Race Against TimeSplendorRomeoWizardIn the LimelightEvolving ChangesCarnivalSassy SadieStillness of the LightComfort ZoneKing of HeartsHot Dog Vendor