Mankind and Nature have been perceived as both interconnected and opposing forces. In the Taoist belief system, the way to know the central principle of the Universe is by living in harmony with nature. There is a gentleness and spontaneity in this return to tao, qualities which Si Jae Byun brings across in her works that render paint upon layers of silk. Silk itself is a purely natural product, consisting of fibres and created by caterpillars. Si Jae mounts layers of coloured silk on canvas to achieve “an ideal balance between line and colour” (Si Jae Byun).
The artist presents a new series of works titled “Birth” which shows a fusion of natural structures and architectural elements that have roots plunging into the ground. Here, she draws parallels between nature and humanity – the struggle of a seedling to spread its roots and survive, alongside the inner conflict that individuals face in a bid to assert themselves and establish their identities; the cycles of nature and the cycles of human life; birth, death and renewal.
Opening: 25 August 2018, Saturday 3 – 5 pm
Venue: Chan + Hori Contemporary, 6 Lock Road Gillman Barracks, #02-09 Singapore 108934
When: 25 Aug - 16 Sep 2018, 11am - 7pm
