Marcos Kueh: Smooth Sailing, 一路順風 Exhibition

esea contemporary is pleased to present ‘Smooth Sailing, 一路順風’, the first institutional solo exhibition by Marcos Kueh—a Netherlands-based artist whose richly layered textile works are gaining increasing recognition on the international stage. This exhibition marks a significant evolution in Kueh’s practice, introducing new materials and processes while deepening his ongoing exploration of cross-cultural histories, diasporic identity, and collective memory.

Developed during Kueh’s recent residency with esea contemporary, where he undertook research in The Whitworth’s internationally renowned textile collection, ‘Smooth Sailing, 一路順風’ explores the realities and afterlives of migration in search of a better future. The exhibition’s title draws from the Chinese phrase 一路順風 (yī lù shùn fēng), which literally means ‘may the wind be smooth along your entire journey.’ It is often used as a parting blessing, conveying hopes for safety, ease, and favourable conditions ahead – particularly for those embarking on uncertain paths. Kueh reflects on this phrase through both personal and historical lenses: his own experiences as a diasporic Chinese Malaysian from Borneo who has migrated to the Netherlands, and broader histories of the textile industry, labour movements, and displacement.

Curator

Jo-Lene Ong

Associate Curator

Julia Jiang

Generously supported by

The Mondriaan Fund, Henry Moore Foundation, Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Galerie Ron Mandos, Arts Council England, Greater Manchester Combined Authority

Co-commissioners

Manchester Metropolitan University, Centre for Heritage, Arts and Textile (CHAT), Hong Kong SAR

On from

October 25, 2025

until

January 11, 2026

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Saturday: 10am–5pm

Sunday: 12–5pm

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