Contours of Identities

“Contours of Identities” weaves light and shadow to create an immersive exploration of my multicultural journey. It features four laser-engraved acrylic panels, each portraying unique facets of my heritage: two opposite panels show me in traditional Chinese and Western attire, respectively, while the other two reveal contrasting images of my hometown, Suzhou—a city where ancient landscapes and vibrant urban development coexist. The form of the installation draws on Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, symbolizing another layer of my identity: learning the Spanish language. When illuminated, these panels project a beautiful blend of light and dark on the walls. The opposing panels, though physically separated, blend under a single light source, reflecting how seemingly distinct cultural elements harmonize and connect through a shared inner light.

The installation’s black wooden frame holds the panels yet invites interaction: each acrylic piece is removable, and while a designated slot suggests where viewers might place their phone flashlights, they are encouraged to explore independently. By removing panels, moving the light source, or casting it from different angles, viewers can actively create new perspectives within the installation—mirroring the openness with which people embrace different cultural influences.

Throughout its creation, I explored a range of materials, from glass to vinyl, ultimately selecting laser-engraved acrylic to enhance the interplay of shadow and light. Though initially working with colour, I chose a monochromatic palette to distil the piece’s essence, allowing the shadows and highlights to tell their own story.

In a future iteration, I envision a room-sized version of the installation, allowing visitors to step inside and become part of the dynamic artwork itself. As their silhouettes interact with the projected images and each other, the installation incorporates increasingly more diverse cultures and stories, all intertwining.

In a world increasingly defined by diversity and cross-cultural exchange, this installation explores how separate identities can come together to form something new, while still honoring the uniqueness of each. Through this experience, I hope to inspire audiences to consider their own cultural journeys, to see beyond surface-level differences, and to recognize the beauty in interconnectedness.