For Arts Sake 2023
GOFY
Illustration
I was a participating artist in GOFY's "For Art's Sake 2023", a showcase of 80 reimagined Western masterpieces by emerging Southeast Asian artists. I contributed three pieces with a unique Southeast Asian twist, displayed alongside the works of 77 other artists across 22 captivating venues in Singapore.
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Kopitiam
Inspired by Guernica by Pablo Picasso (1937)
In Kopitiam, I chose a busy hawker centre setting to depict one of the many frequent artist blocks I encounter. My depiction of a mishmash of iconic playground stone heads, corporate folks, and even the odd Kaiju (Japanese beast) thrown in, represents my experience of learning to channel the chaos within: my inner turmoil as a modern artist struggling to listen to myself more and find my confidence. -
The Old Coffeemaker
Inspired by The Old Guitarist by Pablo Picasso (1903)
In The Old Coffeemaker, I focus on the process that goes into locally brewed kopi (or coffee). Over the years, I have grown to have a better appreciation for the care and craft that goes into making a great cup of kopi; choosing to convey that gruelling daily grind in this artwork. I hope that, as society and technologies advance, this traditional art will continue to be practiced and appreciated! -
Every Father Son
Inspired by The Son of Man by René Magritte (1964)
In Every Father Son, I chose to focus on the life-changing and somewhat disruptive years of my own National Service by depicting the setting of a gun firing range. The soldier's face is masked by an ominous red traffic light to emphasise the strict adherence to the regiment, the loss of personal identity, and the seemingly slow passage of time while serving. In contrast, the gun firing range itself is depicted with lots of movement and visual noise to highlight the level of stimulation a soldier is put through. The only respite is to look up at the night sky and retreat into the stars for a moment.
For Art’s Sake – Shaken & Stirred
GOFY
Illustration
I was a participating artist in "For Art's Sake: Shaken & Stirred", a showcase of 62 reimagined Western works by 50 Southeast Asian artists. I contributed 2 pieces with a unique Southeast Asian twist, displayed alongside the works of 49 other artists across 13 venues in Singapore.
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Playground 2020
Inspired by Untitled by Keith Haring (1983)
In this pop art piece, I celebrate the iconic Toa Payoh Dragon Playground, a local celebrity immortalized by media and beloved by Singaporeans. The artwork explores the parallel evolution of society and technology, highlighting the ever-present influence of social media in our lives. -
Sock, Kopi, and Brewing Pot
Inspired by Jug, Candle, and Enamel Pan by Pablo Picasso (1945)
Channeling the fragmented style of Picasso's "Jug, Candle, and Enamel Pan," this cubist artwork celebrates the essence of Singaporean kopi. A kopi sock, a steaming cup, and a pot brimming with freshly brewed coffee are deconstructed and reassembled, capturing the aroma and vibrancy that greets the rising sun.
Collab Launch:
Ziggie X Middle Child
Illustration
Panel Speaker, DJ
I was a participating artist for Ziggie X Middle Child Wine Bar’s Collab Launch where I debuted and exhibited two of my illustration pieces, “Last Bite at McJulah (2014)” and “Mannaka Cafe”. Additionally, I was a panel speaker and DJ for the event as well.
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Last Bite at McJulah (2014)
This pop art piece celebrates the iconic King Albert Park McDonald's, now a nostalgic beacon of Singapore's cultural heritage. By incorporating local playground characters and classic Japanese pop culture icons, I wanted to showcase the evolving intersection of East and West, past and present, of my own cultural identity.
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Mannaka Cafe
In this pop art tribute, I reimagine Japanese kissaten culture with a twist of tokusatsu irony. Alien Zarab, once a formidable foe, now expertly crafts coffee, underscoring how villainy, like life itself, is often reduced to routine. Kamen Rider's gentle service provides a comforting counterpoint, reminding us that even as we await heroic moments, it's the quiet, everyday experiences that define us.
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Arts Anonymous (AA)
Ziggie X In Bad Co.
Illustration
Panel Speaker, DJ
This was a collaboration between Ziggie and In Bad Co. where I was a participating artist and DJ as well. I was also presented with the opportunity to create the key visual for the event.
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O$P$
In 'O$P$', I blend nostalgia and social commentary, merging retro Singaporean icons with surreal elements. This vibrant illustration explores the tension between nostalgia and modern life.
By combining icons like Ultraman and Toa Payoh's Dragon Playground iconography, I highlight the struggle to balance personal freedom with societal expectations. The O$P$ text critiques financial burdens, while Pac-Man pellets and Mario coins represent consumerism's allure.
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Arts Anonymous (AA) Key Visual
I designed and illustrated the Key Visual for the event. The illustration features In Bad Co.’s mascot alongside a canned beverage marked with Ziggie’s logo. I added the Toa Payoh Dragon character to give it a touch of my own personality into the piece.
Kaleidoscope x The Night Ascent
Ziggie
Illustration
Panel Speaker
I had the privilege of sharing my insights and experiences as a panel speaker alongside esteemed fellow artists from various disciplines and genres. The artwork I contributed for the exhibition, “Year of The Kaleidos-kopi Dragon” has been successfully exhibited and sold, showcasing its commercial appeal and resonance with diverse audiences.
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Year of The Kaleidos-kopi Dragon
'Year of the Kaleidos-kopi Dragon', is a self-portrait that showcases my various interests. It's a fun blend of illustration, coffee, DJing, and Ultraman! This piece represents my creative style, which often is fueled by my sense of humour and whimsy.
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