Land Before Our Time is the latest show by Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts that brings together large drawings and paintings by prominent artists from South-east Asia. The 34 works measure between 1m and 3m in length, alluding to the large and diverse physical landscape of the region.
At Chater House (Hong Kong) (2014)
Hong Sek Chern, ink and colour on paper, 68x138cm
The Singaporean artist uses traditional Chinese ink to present unconventional architectural landscapes.
In this work, she demonstrates her signature use of multi-point perspectives, which suggest tensions between different urban structures.
Sok Bangat! (So Snooty!) (2011)
By I Nyoman Masriadi, acrylic on canvas, 150x200cm
The Indonesian artist is known for his works which satirise modern society. In this work, he references society's obsession with technology, showing a man lazily taking a dip in the water and not actually "surfing".
Lady And Lotus (2010)
By Budi Ubrux, oil on canvas, 180x171cm
Draped in newspaper, the figures in the Indonesian artist's work are a commentary on how people are shaped by the media they consume. The viewer is made to wonder who these figures are.
Light (2011)
By Chong Siew Ying, charcoal and acrylic medium on paper mounted on canvas, 222x138cm
Acclaimed Malaysian painter Chong merges traditional Chinese ink painting techniques with a European sensibility. In this work, she captures a seemingly limitless expanse of a landscape in a way that makes the viewer consider his own place in the world.
Birds On Trees (1973)
By Widayat, oil on canvas, 117x165.5cm
The works of this influential late Indonesian artist are described as magical-decorative. They are often ornamental in detail, depicting jungles and exotic animals, inspired by fine batik, a material his artisan mother worked with.
Exodus (2000)
By Alit Sembodo, mixed media on canvas, 200x185cm
With its chaotic mass of figures, the Indonesian artist suggests an end of the world scenario, a commentary on Indonesian society in 1998, when riots ended President Suharto's rule.
Duck Weeds In The Lotus Pond (2007)
By Chua Ek Kay, ink and pigments on rice paper, 124x123.5cm
This abstract representation of weeds floating in a pond by the pioneer Singapore artist is a classic example of how he bridges Eastern and Western art forms, never running away from his Chinese brush influences.
WHERE: Nafa Galleries 1 & 2, Nafa Campus 1, 80 Bencoolen Street WHEN: Till Oct 4, Tue to Sun, 11am to 7pm, closed on Monday and public holiday ADMISSION: Free INFO: www.nafa.edu.sg/events/exhibition
Nabilah Said
