Zong suo

Wanqing (Sherry) Kong
Photography

Artist Statement: Zong Suo, better known as Suo Yi, is pictured above. It is a form of raincoat commonly used by farmers and fishermen in the Jiangnan region of China, where Sherry’s family is from. Often made from layers of dried reeds or nut grass, Suo Yi has been mostly replaced by lighter modern raincoats. The Suo Yi pictured belonged to Sherry’s grandfather, who was a simple and modest man, staying faithful to his raincoat even in the presence of more convenient options. This Suo Yi, casually sitting by the stairway, is one of the last remaining physical pieces of her grandfather, reminding Sherry of his work ethic, selflessness, kindness, and many other qualities he possessed.

Wanqing (Sherry) Kong is a freshman studying biophysics at the University of Pennsylvania. Her hobbies include painting, drawing, photography, exploring the outdoors, and spending quality time with friends and family. Sherry's love for her Chinese heritage and the desire to explore her identity in a duality of cultures inspires her work.