OEOE Artists- Agustín Kong
Augustin Kong
Agustín Kong is one of the facets of Agustín Bonifacio Guillén. Because there are quite a few: writer, blogger, communicator, university professor, social worker, LGBTIQA+ activist… and who knows what else.
A defender of offering opportunities for everyone to develop their talents and interests, of equality and human rights, he always tries to accompany his gestures with aesthetic intentions and, frequently, with skirts.
What are your traditions for the winter holidays?
For many years I have been lucky enough to spend my winter holidays between Lanzarote and Asturias, so it couldn't be better. Christmas usually finds us in Playa Quemada or Papagayo, naked in the sun and, at night, celebrating the Easter Ranch in Teguise with friends from Lanzarote. New Year's Eve and Epiphany we enjoy surrounded by our Asturian family. This order is better than the other way around: photos on the beach after a few days in Asturias are never the same.
What is your favorite part of vacation?
There would be two: Landing in Lanzarote, breathing its dry air and going to drink a glass of La Geria wine in a short sleeved top while contemplating the volcanoes. One address: Bodeguita El Tablero. On the other hand, the Epiphany meal with the whole Asturian family, singing and singing out of tune at stratospheric levels, is priceless.
Do you prefer “lots of small gifts” or “one or two substantial gifts” when it comes to holiday gifts?
One or two substantial gifts. Ideally something lasting and an experience.
Do you prefer to be a host or a guest? And why?
We don't usually have the space to host, but when we have been able to do so, I have really enjoyed it. As a guest, I like not being a stone, and I try to participate in the creation and distribution of dishes, to liven things up, to clean up... I think that having been a camp counselor for many years has left its mark on me.
Outside of the influencer world, you have many other facets. How and when did you start writing?
When I was little I had a hard time learning to read and write (I did it from right to left) but once I managed it I couldn't stop. I won a couple of poetry contests in primary school and some short story contests later on. Novels and the blog came in my thirties. Over time I have realised that communication is my passion.
Why did you decide to release 'Barceloba'? Why that title?
Initially, the novel was going to be titled “BarceLovers” but during the final refinement process we decided to simplify it and use the main character’s nickname on social media, an influencer linked to Barcelona. Barceloba was not the first novel I wrote, but due to its subject matter, it was the one that most interested my Literary Agency.
You also run the blog 'Hong Kong Blues' on Hola.com, how did you come to start this blog?
I had already written for some regional magazines, but one day I decided to nominate myself for different media and… surprise! Hola.com responded and offered me a blog, so I could write about whatever I wanted on their platform… in 2007! I'm a veteran.
A world without culture would be…
Terrible, a dictatorial scenario, oppressive for many groups and very appealing to certain groups, unfortunately, as we can see.
A book to give as a gift…
Without a doubt, “Las Malas” by Camila Sosa Villada, a raw, beautiful and necessary text.
What are the great treasures in your closet?
The skirts that Manoli, a seamstress, teacher and fairy godmother, made for me, as well as a reversible cape that I bought at an antique shop.
If you could choose one gift from OEOE Handbags this year, what would it be?
The Harry backpack, in black, seems perfect to me. It is also from a collection called “On the Road”, like the magnificent novel by Kerouac and the fantastic bookstore in El Born. Can you ask for more? I doubt it.