Bi Lateral Bonds by Taksu Singapore and Taksu Kuala Lumpur, featuring artists from both cities, highlights the art and cultural exchanges between Singapore and Malaysia as both nations celebrate their independence days this month.
STAND TALL (2016)
Najib Ahmad Bamadhaj, acrylic on skateboard, 203x83cm
In this work about patriotic awareness, the Malaysian artist uses the Kuala Lumpur Tower as a representation of Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak, standing tall amid accusations of corruption. At the same time, the imagery of the yellow butterflies signifies a potential change in the political landscape.
THROUGH THICK AND THIN (2016)
Simon Ng, oil on canvas, 130x100cm
Singapore artist Ng portrays a man born and raised in Malaysia and works in Singapore. He focuses on a single silhouette, drawing on the anonymity of the figure.
HERE OR THERE (2016)
Seah Zelin, oil on aluminium plate, 75x152.5cm
Malaysian artist Seah portrays the differences and similarities between Singapore and Malaysia, which once used to be a single geopolitical entity. The artist, who travels to Singapore for work, reflects on the development and art and culture in the countries.
THE PATRIOT 2 (2016)
Syahmi Jamaluddin, acrylic and silkscreen on canvas,
153x153cm
This work references iconic portraits of international personalities. Without identifying his subject matter, Malaysian artist Syahmi reflects on important persons in Singapore and Malaysia, and how the two countries maintain good ties despite a fraught relationship.
PRINGLES (2016)
Dzaki Safaruan, papercut, 80x 80cm
Singaporean artist Dzaki works mainly in printmaking, with a multi-disciplinary approach. This series of papercut works was inspired by Islamic design concepts and geometry.
KOTA SINGA DALAM KENANGAN (2016)
Hisyamuddin Abdullah, acrylic on canvas, 122.5x122.5cm
Selangor-based artist Hisyamuddin portrays Singapore's late prime minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew, in this work, recognising his efforts in building a prosperous and successful country.
BED (2012)
Allison M. Low, graphite gouache and pastel on arches paper, 57x77cm
Singapore artist Low's disquieting work shows exaggerated scenarios of children playing strange games and being manipulative and manipulated. It reflects on how human beings deal with periods of emotional chaos.
ACTION REACTION (2016)
Mark Tan, giclee print on Hahnemuhle German etching paper, 153x77cm.
The work by Kuala Lumpur-based artist Tan explores the notion of construction and man's desire to forge and push boundaries. He presents scenarios from Singapore and Malaysia, suggesting that both countries share this same desire.
WHERE: Taksu Singapore, 43 Jalan Merah Saga, Workloft @ Chip Bee, 01-72 MRT: Holland Village WHEN: Till Aug 14, 10am to 7pm (Tuesday to Saturday), noon to 6pm (Sunday). Closed on Monday ADMISSION: Free INFO: taksu.com
Nabilah Said
