Shun Yong

2022 EARLY-CAREER RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT GRANTEE | $2,500

C-H-F

Through this grant, Shun Yong will research Asian climbers in the Twin Cities to create new photography and storytelling-based artwork. He seeks to learn why Asian climbers climb, what role Asian climbers play in this traditional white sport, and to search for the ratio of Asian climbers in the gym and outdoors. Additionally, he wants to observe types of materials that are suitable for displaying photos outdoors, as well as the best location to display the photo story.

Yong is a fine art photographer and multidisciplinary artist. A fear of loss, generational trauma, and curiosity motivate him to make photographs. Yong’s Occupation series investigates his identity as a second-generation Chinese immigrant in Malaysia as well as a new immigrant to the US. Producing the Occupation series has not only helped him achieve a sense of belonging in both places, but also allows him to connect with family and strangers alike. Yong’s C-H-F investigates what motivates Asian climbers to take part in what is considered a “white” sport.

Forecast has been offering early-career artist grants supported by Jerome Foundation since 1989. In addition to funding, Forecast is dedicated to providing professional development and learning opportunities designed to assist emerging artists as they experiment/ hone their practices, and cultivate careers in the field. Forecast mid- and early-career grants are designed to support independent projects, leadership development, professional development, risk-taking, multidisciplinary approaches, and collaborative problem-solving in the field of public art.