Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sandy Cheng. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Sandy, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Selecting the most meaningful project from my experiences is a challenging task, as each interaction with artists holds its own significance and impact. However, one project stands out prominently in my memory. Last year, I had the honor to connect with a Richmond-based painting artist and a professor at the Virginia Commonwealth University, Eleanor Mahin Thorp.

During this time, I was deeply engrossed in exploring the concept of time, contemplating its conventional division into past, present, and future. Yet, I found myself drawn to a more nuanced understanding of time—one that transcends linear boundaries. Later I encountered Eleanor who has been thinking about the life of rock that has composed Earth for billions of years, and how she sees images within rock, and I think there’s an intersection between how I see time as nonlinear and the composition of her paintings. Inspired by Persian miniature, her ability to perceive intricate images within the very fabric of these rocks struck a chord, suggesting a convergence between my nonlinear perception of time and the intricate compositions of her paintings.

Our collaboration in a solo exhibition, where Eleanor unveiled an entirely new series of works inspired by the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Through her art, she captured the timeless essence of this natural wonder, infusing it with her unique perspective on the passage of time. The exhibition served as a testament to our shared exploration of the boundless depths of existence, making it a profoundly meaningful project for me.

Sandy, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Sandy, a nonprofit art worker, curator, and arts administrator with a background rooted in Contemporary curation. Throughout my career, I’ve cultivated a deep-seated commitment to meeting people where they are and approaching their art and practice with utmost care. Currently, I’m based in Washington, DC.

My upbringing in a culturally diverse environment has instilled in me a profound curiosity about the inherent differences among individuals. This curiosity has led me to delve into the world of third culture kids—a term coined by sociologist Dr. Ruth Hill Useem in the 1950s. I’m particularly fascinated by the experiences of those who have spent significant portions of their childhood navigating between their parents’ cultures while living outside their passport countries. This exploration fuels my passion for understanding how artists seamlessly integrate global cultural influences into their creative expressions.

Outside of my professional endeavors, I find joy in camping and playing basketball, often taking on the role of a point guard. Engaging in these activities allows me to revel in the collective effort required to bring something to life!

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

What I find most rewarding about being an artist or creative is the opportunity it affords me to break away from the routine of daily life. While many people’s days may seem like a cycle of tasks—preparing meals, dropping off kids, working, running errands—I have the privilege of hitting pause. In that moment, I can truly reflect and contemplate the myriad of occurrences unfolding around me. Engaging in creative practice allows me to hone my self-awareness, providing a valuable space for introspection amidst the hustle and bustle of life.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

One aspect of the creative journey that non-creatives might struggle to understand is the constant interplay between inspiration and discipline. While it’s easy to perceive creativity as a whimsical burst of inspiration, the reality is often far more nuanced. As a creative, I frequently navigate the delicate balance between moments of intense inspiration and the discipline required to translate those ideas into tangible works of art.

Moreover, there’s a certain vulnerability inherent in the act of creation that non-creatives may struggle to comprehend. Every piece of art, every creative endeavor, is a deeply personal expression of the artist’s innermost thoughts and emotions. Sharing that with the world requires a level of courage and vulnerability that can be difficult to fathom for those who haven’t experienced it themselves.

Ultimately, the creative journey is a multifaceted exploration of self-expression, resilience, and vulnerability. By shedding light on these aspects, we can foster a greater understanding and appreciation for the creative process, benefiting both creatives and non-creatives alike.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sandycheng.space
• Instagram: https://ssandy.cheng

Image Credits

All Installation Photo Credits to Vivian Marie Doering