Writer, See You in the Virtual World!, writing for Chong Yan Chuah’s FAC3D solo project at The Backroom, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and for Art & Market, Singapore

FAC3D is an exhibition initiated by Malaysian artist Chong Yan Chuah, exploring the intersection of art, writing, and technology, bridging physical and digital realms. Hosted at The Back Room in Kuala Lumpur, the showcase features a selection of Chong's latest works alongside a printed publication, both of which delve into the complex relationship between human identity and the virtual world. This experimental project incorporates collaborations with both human and non-human agents. Through this multifaceted approach, FAC3D invited viewers to contemplate the blending boundaries between physical existence and digital personas, prompting discussions on how technology shapes and redefines contemporary identity.

“I remember, upon joining Minecraft for the first time, how I was taken aback by its strange yet beautifully-crafted world. It was dusk and the lanterns along the river had just begun to lit. The air was crisp. A rippling body of water surrounded the ground where I was standing. I could almost feel a fresh breeze on my face and hear the rustle of wild green grass. It was the lockdown, and being out in the open air was much needed. I was dressed in a way I never did before. I donned a freshly-picked skin, a lilac top with a crescent shape on its back, a hip-length wig and a cute little sword to complete the look. I felt at peace with my appearance, and decided it would remain so indefinitely.”

– Excerpt from See You in the Virtual World! by Amanda Ariawan, 2021.

Read Amanda’s full writing on Art & Market: artandmarket.net/news/2021/3/30/see-you-in-the-virtual-world

About Chong Yan Chuah

Chong Yan Chuah is a Sino-Malaysian artist, architect, and designer specialising in digital imagery, game art, and installation. His works and practice explore the intersections of virtual reality, simulated spaces, and fictional narratives. He studied architecture at Newcastle University and the Architectural Association in London, later contributing to international projects at Make Architects. Co-founding Inferstudio (2017–2018) and later directing Somnii, he focuses on digital imagination and research. Beyond his studio practice, he has spoken at architecture conferences like DATUM:KL and Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia, advocating for expanded world-building perspectives. Visit his website chongyanchuah.com to learn more about him and his works.

About Art & Market

Art & Market (A&M) is a multimedia platform presenting specialist content on Southeast Asian art, with a focus on its community’s artistic, curatorial and business practices. Since its launch in October 2018, A&M has built a growing archive of news, reviews, analysis and profiles. They have also expanded their content to include projects such as writing contests, live events, the thought leadership series, and publications about how art practitioners in Southeast Asia are landing on their feet against changes in the Southeast Asian art scene. (artandmarket.net)