Where is home? Wen Peor’s art and social practice

The 20th century witnessed rich narratives of left-wing cultural practitioners in Indonesia and China, navigating complex ethnic, national, and anti-colonial landscapes. Yet, understanding the experiences of art practitioners with cross-border mobility remains a challenge. Such individuals often find themselves marginalised or misunderstood amidst migration, social upheaval, and ideological interpretations. This paper delves into the life journey of Wen Peor, an ethnic Chinese artist born in Indonesia, who traversed multiple locales, including Padang, Jakarta, Guangzhou, the Farm for Returned Overseas Chinese in Huizhou, and Hong Kong. Through an exploration of Wen’s life and his illustrious body of work, this study seeks to shed light on his art and philosophies of social practice. It reflects on the experiences of an individual grappling with cultural identity amidst shifting times, who tirelessly sought connections to the notion of home. Wen’s story embodies a humanitarian spirit that transcends geography, lineage, and time.