How to form Identity in Intercultural Contexts – Interview with Artist John Young

How does someone with a bi-ethnic background feel about identity?
What influence does origin have not only on the own perspective,
but also on one's own artistic work?


I talk about this with visual artist JOHN YOUNG. Born in Hong
Kong, John was given to Australia by his parents as a child to
protect him from the unrest of the Cultural Revolution. He has
remained there ever since.


John is an internationally highly regarded artist, not only
because his work is characterized by a particular aesthetic, but
because he works very much from a historical perspective. His art
gives a voice to people who have made a special contribution in
intercultural contexts, namely as mediators between different
cultures. People who stand for humanity.




In this episode you will find out,


how people living in diaspora feel about identity

why identity is a fluid, changing process

how history helps us to develop empathy

how one's origin can shape the own artistic work

why artists are important mediators and eternal learners
at the same time

... and much more. 





This is the first artist talk in the WE ARE ART!
podcast. 


And in view of current world events, I couldn't be more keen
to give a voice to exemplary people like John, who have been
working impressively and tirelessly for decades to promote
mutual understanding, empathy and humanity.


Here in the podcast, we live and celebrate diversity and talk
about it with each other. 
We are different.
We are art.


I hope you enjoy listening and would be delighted if you
subscribe to this podcast!


Much Love


Sylvia


LINKS to the Episode


JOHN YOUNG
Website: https://www.johnyoungstudio.com
Instagram: johnyoungstudio

ART WORKS (Selection)
Paintings
History Projects
Safety Zone 
Exhibition Bonhoeffer in Harlem



SYLVIA VOLZ
Instagram: @dr.sylvia_speaks
Facebook: Sylvia Volz
LinkedIn: Dr. Sylvia Dominique Volz
Email: hello@x-to-flow.com


FURTHER LINKS
Brian Castro: Website
Joseph Beuys: Eurasia


_________


Cover Foto: Franziska Krois & Chantal Hofer
Foto John Young: Dan Mahon I 
Jingle Musik: Epidemic Sound
Jingle Voice: Karoline Pfeiffer