Non-binary II​​ / 8, 14, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28

Unique

^{Non-binary II, 2024, Polymer clay, Unique
The Image courtesy of the artist.}

In his upcoming series of drawings, Dara Kong delves deeply into the intricate fabric of identity and belonging, weaving together personal experiences with broader social narratives. Kong’s practice centers on representing marginalized voices, particularly within the LGBT+ communities, transforming his art into a platform for social change and critical dialogue. His work is profoundly introspective, asking pivotal questions about the nature of belonging and how it is influenced by our movements through various communities. This introspection serves as a catalyst for broader discussions about identity, acceptance, and the complex interplay between individual experiences and societal constructs.

Kong's innovative use of cartographic imagery, grounded in the legacy of abstract figuration, is particularly striking. By creating maps of human movement through interlocking vines, he evokes the interconnectedness of people and their journeys. These maps, with their open-ended beginnings and endings, symbolize the fluid and ongoing nature of our paths, inviting viewers to reflect on their experiences, memories, and worldviews. This cartographic approach not only captures the physical and emotional landscapes traversed by individuals but also underscores the interconnectedness of human experiences.

A notable feature of Kong's work is his use of organic forms, such as tadpoles, to symbolize growth, change, and flow. These elements, rendered through abstract figuration, add a rich layer of meaning to his drawings, mapping his personal life experiences and explorations of new places. Through these symbols, Kong not only shares his personal history but also creates a space for viewers to contemplate their journeys and connections with others. His art fosters curiosity and introspection, encouraging viewers to engage deeply with their memories and experiences, thereby creating a shared space for learning and exploration.
 
Kong's artistic practice is deeply rooted in the exploration of themes such as growth, struggle, love, relationships, social development, and the experiences of the LGBT+ communities. His ceaseless exploration and the relationships he forges along the way serve as catalysts for his expanding maps, which act as symbolic anchors for his wandering mind, constantly seeking acceptance and kindness. This quest for a "home" in foreign lands reflects the ongoing process of finding a sense of belonging and acceptance, particularly for those who feel marginalized or displaced.
 
The concept of searching for a "home" is a recurring theme in Kong's work, highlighting the universal longing for acceptance and connection. His drawings emphasize the significance of creating spaces where people can feel at home, regardless of their background or orientation. Through his art, Kong invites viewers to reflect on their own journeys and their quest for acceptance and belonging. By focusing on these themes and drawing from his personal experiences, Kong contributes to a broader conversation about social change and the rights and experiences of the LGBT+ communities. 
 
Kong’s research and art practices prominently feature public spaces, particularly transportation hubs, gay bars, and maps. These settings play crucial roles in shaping communities, culture, and individual experiences. By exploring transportation, Kong examines how these spaces impact individuals and communities, shedding light on the dynamics of interactions within them. Gay bars, often significant gathering places for the LGBT+ communities, are highlighted as sanctuaries where individuals can freely express their identities and find support and acceptance.
 
Incorporating these various public places into his research and art allows Kong to examine how they shape experiences, communities, and social dynamics. This exploration provides an opportunity to delve into themes of identity, belonging, and acceptance, and how public spaces intersect with personal and collective narratives. Through his work, Kong fosters meaningful discussions, challenges societal norms, and promotes empathy and understanding. His art serves as a reminder that the search for acceptance, love, and understanding is ongoing, and it is through empathy and kindness that we can create a sense of home for ourselves and others.
 
Dara Kong's latest series of drawings thus not only maps the physical journeys of individuals but also charts the emotional and psychological landscapes they navigate. By doing so, he opens up a dialogue about the nature of belonging and the power of art to bring people together, fostering a sense of community and understanding in an increasingly fragmented world.

Text Ken Yeong

About the Artist

Kong Dara (b. 1990, Prey Veng province) studied art at Sa Sa Art Projects. He worked as a curator at the Villa Gallery. He was also previously a Residency Coordinator at Sa Sa Art Projects from 2017 until May 2023. Dara works across media including drawing, sculpture, and installation, often using pen and colored pencil on paper and clay. His artwork investigates his personal experience, memory, and emotions, and often reflects on social change and LGBT+ communities. His work was featured in a solo exhibition, Open Mind, at Strange Fruit, in Phnom Penh (2015). His work has appeared in many group exhibitions at Cambodian and international venues including Ku Bar, Bangkok; Nhà Sàn Collective, Hanoi; SA SA BASSAC, Phnom Penh; The Mansion, Phnom Penh; Cloud, Phnom Penh; Sangker Art Space & Gallery, Battambang; Carol Shen Gallery, New York; and Sa Sa Art Projects, Phnom Penh.

He has undertaken several residencies in Cambodia and internationally, including at MeetFactory, Prague, Czech Republic, Open Contemporary Art Center, Taipei; San Art Laboratory, Ho Chi Minh City; Tentacles Art Space, Bangkok; Sangker Art Space & Gallery, Battambang; and Sa Sa Art Projects, Phnom Penh. He has been invited for three months as an advisor to Multidisciplinary Art (MDA), Faculty of Fine Arts Chiang Mai University, 2019 - 2020. Dara was a recipient of the Alternative Art School Fellowship (2021).