Chinoiserie on Paper

I love all things Chinoiserie as they represent how I grew up as a third culture kid. I use my art to explore my identity. I am ethnically Chinese but my ancestors migrated to Malaysia (Malaya) in the 1800s. I grew up in Penang, Malaysia and continued my studies in the UK and France. My sense of culture is a mish mash of memories growing up in our global melting pot. Ultimately we are all connected through cultural exchange over time and movement. This why my artworks have a feeling of longing, nostalgia and familiarity. It is a celebration of life and its people as one.

I have a few paintings left in this series.

Do drop me a message if you are interested to purchase them or would like a print or licence to use. I am open to these options.

Merdeka Series 

Chinese Blue and White Ginger Jars with Malaysian Wildlife on a dark blue background representing the starting point, and then on neon background representing the evolution. The Chinese blue and white porcelain jars, symbolizes the roots and heritage of the Chinese diaspora, the legacy of traditional Chinese culture, the porcelain jars stand as silent witnesses to the artist’s ancestral heritage. These jars represent the artist’s inherited aspects of Chinese traditions and history, serving as a foundation upon which the artist builds her personal identity. The jars are paired with vibrant Malaysian birds, dragonflies, and flowers, symbolizing the living and evolving fusion of cultures. These vibrant elements represent Malaysia. Through this imagery, the works portray the artist’s journey of embracing and integrating cultural influences.

Themes explored

Identity and Cultural Crossroads: The art explores the complexities of identity faced by the diaspora, a fusion of Chinese heritage and their Malaysian surroundings. The juxtaposition of artistic elements highlights the negotiation of these dual identities.

Honouring Ancestors and Processing Grief: Through art, the artist pays homage to ancestors, acknowledging their struggles and sacrifices. The exhibition serves as a means to process the grief and loss experienced by the artist, transforming sorrow into a celebration of life.