Interview: Joyce Chong
Luca Curci talks with Joyce Chong during FRAGMENTED IDENTITIES, second appointment of BORDERS Art Fair 2020, at THE ROOM Contemporary Art Space and at Palazzo Albrizzi-Capello.

I am a sustainably conscious designer who graduated in Fashion Design (BA). Clothing is an impactful resource that we wear daily and it can easily affect our emotions which is why I am highly interested in the psychology behind garments and textiles. I admire brands and those who have a story behind each of their clothing and shows who made their clothes as I feel this gives you more of an attachment to the garment and appreciate the workers. I believe only recently slow fashion and fashion revolution has become noticeable. My goal is to design for a purpose instead of creating for the sake of producing more and adding to the global issue. I want to strive for a positive impact whilst spreading the importance of health and safety in workers and being sustainable. My inspiration came from the upbringing up of children and how they have been neglected. In a lot of cultures and parenthood they do not understand how to discipline and show emotions towards their children which can damage their mentality when they grow up. I was also inspired by children’s toys for silhouettes, the comfort and softness that a child should need to feel loved. I also researched heavily on light and music therapy. This was key because therapies can heal children through their traumatic experience. I have shown what can happen if the mother and the child do connect through love and create a bond that was lost. A child and the parent should be inseparable. It is an unusual concept that every child can understand. We all want to be loved.

Luca Curci – What is art for you?
Joyce Chong – Art is something that is meaningful, it is a way to express how we feel when you are lost for words. I would also say it can act as a coping mechanism for some, it is like therapy.

LC – What are you currently working on?
JC – During the past few months, I have been creating some illustrations for Aberdeen Must Act which is also part of the Europe must act campaign. We aim to raise awareness and demand a humane living for the refugees in Aegean Islands.

LC – Which is the role the artist plays in the society? And the contemporary art?
JC – Each artist has a different approach in society. I believe an artist should have a unique quality that tells us a story about themselves and their own art. It is an opportunity to be heard through art.

LC – Where do you find your inspiration?
JC – My inspiration varies from personal experience, the places I have been to and things I have witnessed. As well as the current issues in politics and the environment. I think through art I became even more engaged in politics and how I can use that to tell a story.

LC – Do visitors’ suggestions enrich yourself and your art?
JC – I think it really depends. As it could be a piece of art that I have been working on months on end and then for someone to tell me it is not the best work can be disheartening. Although, at the time I am disappointed but after taking criticism and repeatedly trying to improve my creations the results are better than before. I was told this by my lectures at university and in the end, it did push me to work harder and produce a better standard of work.

LC – What do you think about the concept of this festival? How did it inspire you?
JC – The concept of this festival brings different knowledge and background of creativity from around the world. I think it is a great platform for designers to get themselves out there like myself. Attending this festival inspired me to try other medias and keep pushing myself to produce something I enjoy.

LC – We were attracted by your last artistic production, has the artwork presented been created for the festival or as a part of preexisting works?
JC – It was created for a competition on Instagram during Covid19. I have never made a video before, and I really enjoyed making it as it was rewarding to see the end result. Perhaps in the future I would get a chance to produce more.

LC – Would you suggest a collaboration with us? What do you think about our services?
JC – A collaboration would be very exciting. I love working with other designers and be inspired with one another as I believe each person brings something unique to the team. There is nothing better than working with a group of creative people who share a similar interest.

LC – Do you think ITSLIQUID GROUP can represent an opportunity for artists?
JC – Yes, definitely. It is always important to be heard so I think ITSLIQUID can provide a voice for artists. This is especially for young individuals who want a career in the creative industry and are unsure where to begin.

LC – Did you enjoy cooperating with us?
JC – Yes, it was my first experience in being featured at an exhibition and I would love to do something similar in the future. Thank you for cooperating with me!