“Belonging” explores the confusion and uncertainty faced by contemporary youth in the absence of cultural and social identity. Through his personal experiences, Dongchen reflects on how young people, caught at the intersection of multiple cultures, confront the challenges of identity in a globalized world.
The work centers around the philosophical question, “Where do I come from? Where am I going?” delving into the loss of cultural belonging and the psychological struggles it brings. Through critiques of phenomena like the Chinese Communist Party and religious beliefs, Dongchen expresses his sense of alienation from his native culture and his uncertainty about his future direction. Using photography as a language, Dongchen presents a complex interplay of personal emotions, loneliness, and confusion, making the work not only a record of personal growth but also a profound reflection on the crisis of belonging in the context of globalization and cross-cultural experiences.