Genetic Landscape II: Regeneration—Ways of Being

Published: 2022
Dimension: 297mm x 210mm
Extent: 44 pages, black and white
Finish: Paperback
Published by: Artists Caravan

Regeneration – Ways of Being manifest as both a zine and a group art exhibition 
Opening reception 18 June 2022

Why do we keep making? And how do our processes/practices support regeneration?

In our second zine, we present Regeneration – Ways of Being art exhibition participating artists working processes, thoughts and sketches. These artists are Cynthia Foong, Mahyuddin Chan or Din Chan, Syamil Dasuki, Ong Si Hui, Shayne Phua, Yang Jie, Joey.SPL and Ong Xiao Yun. Timonthy Soh and Pamela Ng with their writings reflected and interpreted on the art show theme.

We have also invited established artists/sculptors to response to the same question with their quote. In the zine, you will find quotes by Yeo Chee Kiong, Chiew Sien Kuan, Lim Soo Ngee, Victor Tan Wee Tar, Sai (aka Chen Sai Hua Kuan) and Dr Wong Ruo Bing.

How do artists and their practices support regenerative or restorative possibilities towards people, the environment, and the things of everyday life? Regeneration refers to environmental consciousness. It is also about how we become concerned and engaged with the world. The durability of the art object and the toil of the artists. The artist liberates earthy materials from the position of rapid consumption to one of durability, stability and reflection. Could it move towards a far-sighted approach to world-connectedness?

If one could, while intimately acquainted with your world, express the idea of regeneration into works of art and the processes involved, how would it turn out? Regeneration: Ways of Being, an exhibition of mostly new sculptural artworks were created from the inception of that inquiry. Organised by Artists Caravan, Regeneration: Ways of Being will be held at AC43 Gallery from 17 – 28 June 2022.

Eight local artists – Symail Dasuki, Yang Jie, Cynthia Foong, Din Chan, Shayne Phua, Ong Xiao Yun, Ong Si Hui and Joey.Spl, present how they weave intimate blueprints of their world, into their regenerative meditations. They endeavour to add to the durability of artworks. Repurposing, regenerating, and ultimately pushing various artefacts through the process of rebirth to become a new work of art.

What is interesting about this exhibition is how a divergent group ranging across generations and cultural backgrounds develop converging pathways when it comes to developing a relationship with their materials.

One asks, why do artists keep making and remaking their art? Producing perfection from imperfections is, after all, the highest of art forms. Yet, the endeavour to continue working on it, too, is an intangible form of art.

Take a glimpse into the chain of events that culminate in the artists’ perceptions. To see events that shape their blueprint of their world. Some forms of art like electronic arts (NFTs being one) are, by their nature, intangible and ephemeral. A sculpture, on the other hand, is physicality moulded into tangible existence through a craftsperson’s hands. A lifetime of mastery of material and approach. Much like the butterfly effect. The process is never seen but it is locked into the works.

Exhibition dates: 17 June to 22 June 2022
Location: AC43 Gallery, 76 Bras Basah Road #01-01 Singapore 189558