Kong Cheng tells the stories of Chongqing through textile丨Faces

A unique exhibition showcasing an array of canvas bags, each imbued with its own narrative, commenced on March 20. Curated by Kong Cheng, a textile designer, the exhibition invited visitors to engage with the stories that are encapsulated on these bags, all of which originate from Kong's personal experience.

Kong Cheng inaugurates her new canvas bag exhibition. [Photo/Kong Cheng]

Within the exhibition space, visitors were encouraged to contribute their own tales by writing them on stickers, which can then be exchanged for a bag that is suspended from the walls. The vacated bag is replaced by the sticker, thus perpetuating the evolving narrative of each piece. "This interactive exchange serves to extend the journey of every bag," said Kong.

Kong Cheng introduces color theory at a scarf coloring activity. [Photo/Kong Cheng]

Among these collections, one bag emblazoned with the initials UAL bears Kong's reminiscences of her time studying at the London College of Fashion, a constituent college of the University of the Arts London (UAL). Kong's passion for art and design was ignited at the tender age of four, flipping through art magazines, fostering an unwavering ambition to pursue studies in London at the age of 16.

Specializing in fashion textiles at UAL, Kong honed her skills in diverse textile designs, garnering recognition for her works, as they have been acquired by renowned companies such as Microsoft and Adidas. Despite a year-long internship at the esteemed fashion house Ralph & Russo, Kong's resolve to return to China remained steadfast. "I perceive costume design as a potential squandering of resources, with excessive stock often underutilized," explained Kong, elucidating her decision to pivot towards textile design and establish her own business in China.

Kong Cheng's textile design is used in Adidas men's wear. [Photo/Kong Cheng]

Though Shanghai presented ample opportunities, Kong's intention to start up shop in her hometown, Chongqing, prevailed. "As a native of Chongqing, I discerned disparities in the artistic ambiance between the two cities, motivating me to contribute towards balancing the scales in my hometown," Kong emphasized.

After two years of meticulous preparation, Kong inaugurated her venture in 2022, named Fruitwood & Childhood Dotcom, comprising four integral segments in a two-floor house: a design studio, a handcraft studio, an exhibition area, and a handicraft shop. "Fruitwood symbolizes the exhibition and handicraft select shop, wherein I envision myself as a tree fostering the growth of other designers' ideas. Childhood Dotcom embodies the design studio and handcraft studio, where individuals of all ages can revel in the joy of creation," said Kong.

Kong Cheng's handcraft studio brings visitors happiness. [Photo/Kong Cheng]

Visitors to the handicraft studio are encouraged to defy conventional norms, fostering an environment conducive to innovation. Kong recounted the heartwarming anecdote of an 80-year-old man with a heart stent, wholeheartedly immersing himself in creating herb prints, reminiscent of a child at play.

In her endeavor to amplify recognition for budding designers, Kong extends invitations to young talents to exhibit their artworks and source handcrafted pieces globally, ranging from porcelain to woodcut. Additionally, Kong remains committed to her own design pursuits, collaborating with companies for customized textile designs, thus ensuring optimal utilization of her creations.

Kong Cheng's handicraft select shop collects exquisite handicrafts worldwide. [Photo/Kong Cheng]

While acknowledging the budding stage of her venture, Kong contemplates expanding her business to cater to the evolving needs of visitors. "Only by integrating my designs with commerce can I ascertain the true utility of my creations. I aspire for my works to resonate with and serve the needs of the community," said Kong, underscoring her dedication to creating meaningful contributions through her craft.