Tay Bak Chiang Fragments of Life Exhibition

E-Catalogue

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Private Preview:

Saturday, May 18, 2024, 2 – 6pm (By Invitation Only)

Kindly RSVP by calling +65 6339 0678 or email enquiry@ipreciation.com

Exhibition Opens to Public:

May 20 – Jun 1, 2024

10am – 7pm (Mon – Fri)

11am – 6pm (Sat)

Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Venue:

50 Cuscaden Road, HPL House #01-01, Singapore 249724

Tel: + 65 6339 0678 Fax: + 65 6438 2080

www.ipreciation.com

Exhibition Announcement

iPRECIATION is delighted to announce the latest exhibition by renowned Singaporean contemporary artist Tay Bak Chiang, titled “Fragments of Life 生活碎片,” scheduled from 18th May to 1st Jun 2024.

About the Exhibition:

Life is made up of countless small and often indescribable fragments. Within these moments lie memories of the past as well as stories unfolding in the present. Together, they form a tapestry shaped by joy, sorrow, and reflection.

The exhibition “Fragments of Life” draws inspiration from the reservoir of memories within Tay Bak Chiang’s inner world. Many works reflect everyday experiences. Although these moments may appear fleeting, they resonate deeply with the artist. As a result, they emerge in vivid imagery and vibrant colours on canvas.

Creativity, however, often arises from unexpected encounters. In fact, inspiration can appear suddenly rather than through careful planning. Such moments frequently surprise the artist.

On one occasion, while purchasing paint supplies, a striking shade of purple caught Tay’s attention. Immediately, it reminded him of an unfinished concept titled “Purple Dragon King.” The image of a majestic dragon soaring through purple and gold came to mind. Inspired by this moment, the artist began experimenting with the colour and translating the vision onto canvas.

Meanwhile, colour also became a symbolic tool in other works. In “Equality of Life,” stones of different hues appear side by side. Together, they represent the intrinsic equality of all individuals, regardless of wealth or status.

However, the exhibition also reflects the darker realities of the world. In a time when light and darkness coexist, images of civilian suffering often appear in global media. These scenes raise an important question: how can one remain indifferent in the face of conflict and human greed?

In response, Tay created “Enclosure,” a work that reflects persistent social and psychological barriers. Even in modern societies, invisible walls continue to divide communities. Similarly, “Devouring the Weak” reveals the exploitation and vulnerability that exist within human systems.

Throughout history, cycles of conflict and inequality continue to repeat. Nevertheless, the artist’s brush offers a way to process these realities. Through painting, Tay translates feelings of unease into visual form. At the same time, he captures rare moments of peace and quiet happiness within life’s chaos.

About the Artist:

Tay Bak Chiang (b. 1973, Malaysia) is a Malaysian-born artist who now lives and works in Singapore. Today, he is widely recognised for his contemporary Chinese ink paintings.

Tay graduated with a Diploma from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts in 1995. He later pursued further studies at the China Academy of Art in 1997.

Over the years, he has received several important accolades. Notably, he won the UOB Painting of the Year (Traditional Chinese Medium Category) in both 2000 and 2003. In addition, he was awarded the Young Artist Award in 2002.

Tay’s works have appeared in major international art fairs. These include Art Basel Hong Kong, Art Stage Singapore, Art Miami, Art New York, Art Paris, Art Taipei, and Edinburgh Art Fair.

Furthermore, his works are held in numerous public and private collections. These include the National Gallery Singapore, the The Istana, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore, and the Permanent Mission of Singapore to the United Nations in New York. His artworks are also part of several corporate and hospitality collections worldwide.