Page 37 - Novelist Post – J.D. Barker and more

Cecile Chong’s artwork masterfully blends intricate figures, foliage, and fluid watercolor backgrounds, creating a serene and nostalgic atmosphere. The delicate blue monochromatic illustrations of children and a woman evoke innocence and curiosity, harmonized with dreamy, textured washes of cream and blue hues. Overhanging leafy motifs frame the composition, enhancing its connection to nature. This piece balances timeless craftsmanship with an imaginative narrative, inviting the viewer into a tranquil, evocative moment that sparks feelings of wonder and reflection.
Cecile Chong’s evocative artistry masterfully bridges cultural narratives, evoking human- ity’s shared essence with innovation, depth, and profound storytelling.
creative process?
your sculptures resonate with audiences across different cultures, particularly in relation to environmental consciousness?
My hope is that viewers will reimagine the role of art in society, positioning my work not just as an object of beauty but as a catalyst for cultural transformation and sustainable thinking. However, since my artwork does not always visually convey concerns about climate change, animal welfare, and overconsumption viewers may not always make these connections. But because my work mimics organic and abstract forms, my work inevitably provokes thought and a kinship with the natural world regardless of the audience because we, as humans, have
an innate curiosity when it comes to the natural world.
You employ both traditional textile techniques and alternative material manipulation in your sculptures. Can
you describe how you merge these techniques, and what drew you to explore fiber as your primary medium?
My training in fiber arts was generally rooted in contemporary, alternative exploration rather than traditional approaches. While I learned techniques such as machine sewing and fabric dying, my mentors encouraged me to think out- side of tradition and develop my own techniques of sculpting with fibers. I’ve always been drawn to the softness of fibers and its forgiving nature. This medium has allowed me to explore my
fascination with nature through an abstract and vibrant lens.
As an artist dedicated to challenging consumerism and excess, how do you navigate the commercial art world while staying true to your ecological principles?
As an artist emerging within a digital culture, I’ve found utilizing commercial art forms such as social media has tremendously helped me grow my profession. I’ve spent years establis- hing my Instagram account and as a result, I have a devoted community of fellow artists and collectors who can follow and support my ar- tistic journey. This platform has allowed me to share my ecological principles and bring more awareness to issues such as climate change, the textile waste crisis, and so on.
Your works are often described as inspired by the geometry of biology. Can you elaborate on how the natural world informs the textures, shapes, and colors in your art?
I have a deep fascination with how cells and organisms are formed through patterns and replication. I often use the transformative power of replication of a single form to create my sculptural pieces – building, layering, and structuring my work into something unexpec- ted and quite fascinating.
As an eco-conscious artist, sourcing materials is a dedicated practice in a world where most readily available supplies are often unsustainab- le. Depending on the art piece, I love sour-
cing secondhand clothing and fabrics at local thrift stores. Beyond that, I scour the internet searching for the most sustainable alternatives to common materials like organic kapok fiber instead of polyester stuffing, organic cotton instead of conventional cotton, and bamboo felt instead of wool felt. The plant fibers I choose to work with are incredibly high-quality which ele- vates my work. When working with secondhand fabrics, often the variety of woven textures and color palettes that come together while I source these supplies will help dictate how the artwork comes to life.
Your sculptures explore the adaptability of nature while critiquing unsustainable practices, especially in the textile industry. How do you balance aesthetic beauty with activism in your pieces?
I like to describe my work as a gentle form of activism. The artist in me has a primal desire to create beautiful works of art relating to nature that are both inviting and inspiring. And the acti- vist in me has the desire to use my artistic voice as a means to encourage a more sustainable and ethical world.
Your work has been exhibited globally, from Berlin to Seoul. How do you think
NOVeLIST POST II 37