Meet Sandy Cheng | Curatorial Fellow & Art Administrator,

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sandy Cheng and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sandy, why did you pursue a creative career?
The genuine answer would be I don’t know what would I be doing other than being in the arts–curating and caring for artists… I started my artistic career from oil painting and graphic designs, however, after spending long times being in the studio creating my own work, I found myself more interested in getting to know and learn other artists’ practice, delving into their thoughts and experiences became my primary focus. I’m intrigued by how individuals’ cultural backgrounds, family dynamics, and personal beliefs influence their artistic expression and shape their identities.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My name is Sandy and I am a Taiwanese born, Washington-DC based curator and arts administrator. I am currently serving as a curatorial fellow at Tephra Institute of Contemporary Art (Reston, VA). My journey into curating is deeply rooted in my diverse life experiences. From my upbringing in Taiwan and Shanghai to my later moves to Arkansas and Baltimore for school, and now residing in the nation’s capital. Across these varied locales, I’ve often found myself navigating different communities, feeling simultaneously connected and adrift. Seeking to bridge these divides, I’ve been exploring a term first coined by American sociologist Ruth Useem in the 1950s called Third culture kids– referring to individuals who have spent a significant part of their formative years living outside of their passport countries, often struggling to find their places in the world.cultural touch points like food and family narratives. Through my curatorial lens, I delve into the practices of artists grappling with the complexities of cultural fusion. My work is a quest for understanding, a means of forging connections amid the rich tapestry of human experience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a very hospitable person and would customize a schedule for friends and family depending on their interest. In general, when exploring Washington, D.C., one of my top recommendations is the Kreeger Museum, a fascinating private residence transformed into an art gallery, showcasing an impressive collection of modern and contemporary works. For a leisurely stroll, Georgetown in the northwest part of the city offers charming architecture and a quaint neighborhood ambiance. Don’t miss grabbing a coffee and indulging in cupcakes from Baked & Wired for a delightful treat! For a taste of D.C. ‘s vibrant creative scene, Union Market is a must-visit. Beyond its diverse food options, the market often hosts pop-up art fairs like the Umbrella Art Fair and Superfine Art Fair, providing opportunities to connect with local artists and immerse oneself in their captivating creations.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am deeply grateful to Inés Sanchez de Lozada, a Bolivian-born curator whom I consider not only a peer but also a figure I hold in high regard. In both professional and personal realms, she has been an invaluable source of guidance and inspiration. Inés has imparted to me the importance of empathy, demonstrating how to create inclusive spaces where individuals can truly be themselves. Through her example, I’ve learned diverse methods of fostering connection, whether through shared meals, music, or dance. Her teachings extend far beyond the realm of curatorial practice, enriching my understanding of how care and compassion can profoundly impact both our professional endeavors and our personal interactions.

Website: sandycheng.space

Instagram: ssandy.cheng

Image Credits
Image Credits to Vivian Marie Doering