In Between

Shu Xin Wong

In Between is a kinetic sculpture that explores the idea of cultural liminality through the medium of light. The work contrasts the historical textures of Malaysian shadow puppetry with the contemporary shades of the London metropolis. The sculpture features two rotating lights and two rotating masks which project an ever-changing display of these cross-cultural textures into the surrounding space.

The sculpture is comprised of a series of layers that show elements of shadow puppetery representing Malaysia, surrounded by layers representing the more austere aspects of the city of London. These are modulated by kinetic lights that spin in concentric circles illuminating the surrounding space with overlaid opposite representations on the walls of the space, allowing the observer to be immersed in the experience.

The sculpture reflects on what a sense of belonging means to people living in cultures separate to their own. In Between investigates this idea of liminality by sharing the culture and history of Malaysia and the culture and lifestyle of the United Kingdom. It demonstrates the contrast of two identities, overlaid and intertwined. It aims to become the crossroads to a new transcultural movement.

Image: In Between, by Shu Xin Wong