78. ALFRED CHENG: A SPACE BETWEEN EMERGENCE AND SUBMERGENCE.
‘As I meticulously intertwine the threads, I am reminded of the interconnectedness of our world, where every strand of threads has a role to play in the larger picture.’ A.C.
Alfred Cheng, Species (2023), Thread and acrylic on canvas, 80 x 120 cm, image courtesy of the artist.
Your work is fascinating - the way you create a sense of emergence… was there a breakthrough moment in developing this medium?
During the past few years… I have discovered the captivating power of threads as a medium of expression. I pay homage to the legacy of craftsmanship and the unique cultural heritage embedded within Asia’s textile traditions. I strive to reinterpret and breathe new life into traditional practices…
I believe that only through the interconnectedness of each other… In my eyes, there are no boundaries and nothing is absolute. It is this vision that allows me to explore the endless possibilities of interconnectedness and unleashing a thread's expressive ability…
When I saw your work for the first time - I immediately thought of Georges Seurat and his drawings - made on thick, granular paper - where an image is implied and not fully defined - an impression - an essence... when you work, do you enter a specific feeling and space within yourself?
The process of working with threads is a meditative and transformative experience. As an artist with deep roots in Asian heritage, I draw inspiration from the vibrant textiles, embroidery, and weaving techniques that have been integral to the region's cultural identity for centuries, mainly within Hong Kong and China.
As I meticulously intertwine the threads, I am reminded of the interconnectedness of our world, where every strand of threads has a role to play in the larger picture. This interplay of threads reflects the complex and interconnected nature of Asian culture, where diverse traditions, beliefs, and values coexist harmoniously.
A thread can play a crucial meaning by representing the concept of familial bonds and intergenerational connections. Family ties hold significant importance in many Asian societies, where the harmony and well-being of the family unit are highly valued.
These traditions, which have been passed down through generations, serve as a unifying force that connects individuals to their heritage and roots. They provide a sense of identity and belonging, fostering a shared understanding and appreciation for the cultural tapestry of the Asian community.
Alfred Cheng, Amondawa, 2024, Thread, acrylic and nails on canvas, 120 x 120 cm. Image courtesy of the artist.
There is a fascinating tension within the works you make - a thread - taught - held between nails - like an instrument and also like a three-dimensional etching - please can you contemplate on the nature of making the works and what you have learned so far in this body of work as a whole?
My art aims to encourage cross-cultural exchange and serves as a bridge between the past and the present, allowing viewers to experience the unique beauty and cultural significance of Asia's textile culture. By combining the traditional medium and the innovative technology, this juxtaposition of old and new creates a dialogue between tradition and innovation, inviting viewers to question preconceived notions and discover new dimensions of Asian textile heritage.
I hope that my artworks will deepen people's understanding and appreciation of Asia's textile heritage by preserving traditional mediums, infusing new artistic vision, fostering cultural exchange, evoking emotional connections, and inspiring creativity. Through these avenues, I aspire to create a lasting impact that leads to greater recognition, respect, and celebration of Asia's rich and diverse textile traditions.
There appear to be specific themes that you return to - I found the depictions of hair and the crowds to be really interesting... please can you speak of this series and what these images signify to you?
Crowds have a unique energy and complexity that fascinates me as an artist. Crowds also serve as a microcosm of society, showcasing the diverse range of individuals and their interactions. Within a crowd, you can find people from different backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life. This diversity presents an opportunity to explore the intricacies of human relationships, societal structures, and the interplay between individuals.
Individual identities can merge and become subsumed within the collective. This anonymity allows viewers to project their own experiences, emotions, and interpretations onto the crowd, fostering a sense of connection and relatability.
Alfred Cheng, Choir (2024), Thread and nails on canvas, 120 x 120 cm. Image courtesy of artist.
Special Thanks to Carlo Volpi.