ART FORMOSA 2023

Artist Statement

Syed Fakaruddin skillfully captures the essence of proportion through the depiction of tree trunks. The asymmetry of the roots and the variety presented by the stumps further enrich the narrative. The artwork reflects an individual’s deep reflections on external formations. It subtly implies that these formations find their strength in a central core, a foundational pillar supporting the entire structure. The portrayal of landscapes employs dynamic lines, vivid and full of energy, bringing to life the contours of each unique formation. Moreover, the artwork communicates the notion that the distinctive essence of each form finds expression in its own set of lines, setting it distinctly apart from the rest.

Artist Statement

Syed Fakaruddin skillfully captures the essence of proportion through the depiction of tree trunks. The asymmetry of the roots and the variety presented by the stumps further enrich the narrative. The artwork reflects an individual’s deep reflections on external formations. It subtly implies that these formations find their strength in a central core, a foundational pillar supporting the entire structure. The portrayal of landscapes employs dynamic lines, vivid and full of energy, bringing to life the contours of each unique formation. Moreover, the artwork communicates the notion that the distinctive essence of each form finds expression in its own set of lines, setting it distinctly apart from the rest.

Artist Statement

Syed Fakaruddin skillfully captures the essence of proportion through the depiction of tree trunks. The asymmetry of the roots and the variety presented by the stumps further enrich the narrative. The artwork reflects an individual’s deep reflections on external formations. It subtly implies that these formations find their strength in a central core, a foundational pillar supporting the entire structure. The portrayal of landscapes employs dynamic lines, vivid and full of energy, bringing to life the contours of each unique formation. Moreover, the artwork communicates the notion that the distinctive essence of each form finds expression in its own set of lines, setting it distinctly apart from the rest.

Artist Statement

In Gan Tee Sheng’s earlier 2019 series, he explored dark, surreal worlds, leaving viewers to decipher enigmatic scenes. This fascination with mystery subtly carries over into his current “nude” painting. Whether intentional or subconscious, this link adds intrigue to his evolving artistic vision. Notably, the recurring motif of two hands tightly clutching the body in these paintings creates a specific tension for viewers familiar with his background, hinting at deeper narratives and unspoken emotions.

Artist Statement

The inspiration behind Model-W11 and Model-W22 comes from most people’s concepts of themselves. Does a perfect model truly exist, or is the relentless pursuit driven by the desire to become your authentic self, or merely to conform to the next standardized model? Even individuals nearing perfection start to drift away from authenticity, embarking on a self-devouring journey that won’t cease until our souls are nearly extinguished.

Artist Statement

Yuki art delves into emotions and their management. She seeks equilibrium amid inner struggles and calmness. In this series, emotions turn into vibrant colors on flowers and plants, symbolizing inner worlds, the subconscious, and feminine charm.
Like women, blossoms and plants go through growth, decline, and rebirth, exuding beauty and strength. By blending nature with femininity, Yuki portrays the intricate link between female qualities and life’s changing dynamics. Overlaid flowers on female forms symbolize concealed thoughts and feelings. This technique reflects their subtle minds, prompting reflection on the profound inner world of women.

Artist Statement

Yuki art delves into emotions and their management. She seeks equilibrium amid inner struggles and calmness. In this series, emotions turn into vibrant colors on flowers and plants, symbolizing inner worlds, the subconscious, and feminine charm.
Like women, blossoms and plants go through growth, decline, and rebirth, exuding beauty and strength. By blending nature with femininity, Yuki portrays the intricate link between female qualities and life’s changing dynamics. Overlaid flowers on female forms symbolize concealed thoughts and feelings. This technique reflects their subtle minds, prompting reflection on the profound inner world of women.

Artist Statement

Yuki Tham’s artwork delves into the realm of emotions and explores how individuals navigate them. She seeks to find equilibrium between inner turmoil and inner tranquillity. In her series of works, emotions are depicted through a vibrant array of colours inspired by flowers and plants. These colours symbolize the inner spiritual world, the subconscious mind, and the unique allure of women. As we journey through life, we encounter challenges and undergo transformations, planting seeds within us that eventually sprout, grow, and blossom over time. Yuki Tham’s paintings blend these colours in a way that nurtures the soul and provides healing where it is needed. Through her art, she strives to capture the essence of each emotion and its transformative power.

Artist Statement

In the midst of all observations, the truth remained mysteriously out of grasp. The giraffeS, standing nonchalantly behind a fence, seemed to inadvertently reveal its secrets. Like a protector of an enigmatic tale, it was ingrained in the giraffe’s very being. To unravel it, one had to peer beyond the obvious and delve into the depths beneath.

Artist Statement

In the midst of all observations, the truth remained mysteriously out of grasp. The giraffeS, standing nonchalantly behind a fence, seemed to inadvertently reveal its secrets. Like a protector of an enigmatic tale, it was ingrained in the giraffe’s very being. To unravel it, one had to peer beyond the obvious and delve into the depths beneath.

Artist Statement

Toys have become a global phenomenon, captivating not only children but also collectors worldwide. The industry, particularly in plastic and vinyl toys, has witnessed a surge in demand, indicating its appeal across different age groups.

The culture of toy collecting has experienced rapid growth over time, and this phenomenon holds significant historical value. In Nik Mohd Shahfiz’s recent works, he portrays iconic Disney character toys such as Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, as well as the renowned designer toy KAWS, who represents a prominent pop culture icon. Through these artworks, he aims to present a glimpse into the future, envisioning these toys as potential relics.

While civilizations of the past cherished artifacts like the Venus of Willendorf or the Bust of Cleopatra, as a contemporary artist, he finds toys to hold a profound significance. He collects these toys and observes their manufacturing process, witnessing how they transform or deform under the impact of extreme weather conditions. This metamorphosis leads to the creation of intriguing forms. The fluidity and interaction between the toys and their surroundings demonstrate how these “relics” blend harmoniously with the environment, envisioning a scenario where they may one day be buried in sand or submerged beneath the sea.

Artist Statement

Toys have become a global phenomenon, captivating not only children but also collectors worldwide. The industry, particularly in plastic and vinyl toys, has witnessed a surge in demand, indicating its appeal across different age groups.

The culture of toy collecting has experienced rapid growth over time, and this phenomenon holds significant historical value. In Nik Mohd Shahfiz’s recent works, he portrays iconic Disney character toys such as Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, as well as the renowned designer toy KAWS, who represents a prominent pop culture icon. Through these artworks, he aims to present a glimpse into the future, envisioning these toys as potential relics.

While civilizations of the past cherished artifacts like the Venus of Willendorf or the Bust of Cleopatra, as a contemporary artist, he finds toys to hold a profound significance. He collects these toys and observes their manufacturing process, witnessing how they transform or deform under the impact of extreme weather conditions. This metamorphosis leads to the creation of intriguing forms. The fluidity and interaction between the toys and their surroundings demonstrate how these “relics” blend harmoniously with the environment, envisioning a scenario where they may one day be buried in sand or submerged beneath the sea.

Artist Statement

Toys have become a global phenomenon, captivating not only children but also collectors worldwide. The industry, particularly in plastic and vinyl toys, has witnessed a surge in demand, indicating its appeal across different age groups.

The culture of toy collecting has experienced rapid growth over time, and this phenomenon holds significant historical value. In Nik Mohd Shahfiz’s recent works, he portrays iconic Disney character toys such as Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, as well as the renowned designer toy KAWS, who represents a prominent pop culture icon. Through these artworks, he aims to present a glimpse into the future, envisioning these toys as potential relics.

While civilizations of the past cherished artifacts like the Venus of Willendorf or the Bust of Cleopatra, as a contemporary artist, he finds toys to hold a profound significance. He collects these toys and observes their manufacturing process, witnessing how they transform or deform under the impact of extreme weather conditions. This metamorphosis leads to the creation of intriguing forms. The fluidity and interaction between the toys and their surroundings demonstrate how these “relics” blend harmoniously with the environment, envisioning a scenario where they may one day be buried in sand or submerged beneath the sea.

Artist Statement

In his “For Future Generation” series, Nik M Shazmie explores a new narrative for iconic animation characters. Growing up immersed in Japanese animation and comics, Shazmie recognizes the significance of these characters to their respective storylines and how they have the potential to create alternative narratives on their own. For him, there is no definitive truth or fiction because once a story is conveyed, its interpretation depends on the artist and the audience.

For instance, in “For Future Generation I (Ultraman and Godzilla)”, Shazmie envisions Godzilla, one of the oldest and most iconic kaiju (monster) characters in Japanese shows, as the mentor who taught Ultraman how to fight monsters from a young age. This allows Ultraman to continue battling and maintaining balance in their world. According to the artist, heroes in a life story would be pointless and mundane without their eternal rivals.

Artist Statement

In his “For Future Generation” series, Nik M Shazmie explores a new narrative for iconic animation characters. Growing up immersed in Japanese animation and comics, Shazmie recognizes the significance of these characters to their respective storylines and how they have the potential to create alternative narratives on their own. For him, there is no definitive truth or fiction because once a story is conveyed, its interpretation depends on the artist and the audience.

In “For Future Generation II (Gundam and Evangelion)” and “For Future Generation III (Pokemon and Ash)”, the themes of “father and son” or “mentor and mentee” strongly influence these three pieces. Shazmie suggests that the passed-down stories are not merely intended for logical reasons but to shape individuals into becoming part of the story themselves, thus creating a reciprocal connection.

Artist Statement

In his “For Future Generation” series, Nik M Shazmie explores a new narrative for iconic animation characters. Growing up immersed in Japanese animation and comics, Shazmie recognizes the significance of these characters to their respective storylines and how they have the potential to create alternative narratives on their own. For him, there is no definitive truth or fiction because once a story is conveyed, its interpretation depends on the artist and the audience.

In “For Future Generation II (Gundam and Evangelion)” and “For Future Generation III (Pokemon and Ash)”, the themes of “father and son” or “mentor and mentee” strongly influence these three pieces. Shazmie suggests that the passed-down stories are not merely intended for logical reasons but to shape individuals into becoming part of the story themselves, thus creating a reciprocal connection.