“Stilts” is a solo exhibition by local artist Wong Shih Yaw featuring 17 heartfelt creations from the artist’s latest series. Art lovers can catch the exhibition between 26 November to 23 December 2022 at the gallery, located at 2 Havelock Road, #02-29 Havelock 2, Singapore 059763.
Standing on stilts elicits mixed emotions. We can all imagine the exuberance from being elevated above others while maintaining balance and keeping a tight grip for fear of falling. Stilts symbolises our endeavours; despite the risk of falling and the greater the impact of a fall the higher we climb, we still muster the courage to pursue our dreams by getting on those poles in the hopes of scaling greater heights.
Wong conceptualised the series Stilts at the height of the pandemic and executed his ideas towards the end of 2021. It was a challenging time for many, including the artist himself. Restrictions from safety measures meant that our pursuits had to be limited, but many remained confident and continued to contemplate the future. A compilation of Wong’s observations on the human condition, Stilts is a series which reflects on the aspirations of people amidst the realities of life. It celebrates people’s sense of hope and their tenacity in overcoming obstacles and adversity.
Several recurring themes feature prominently in Wong’s latest series. The artist emphasises the importance of friendship, relationships, and cooperation even as we chase our dreams, and applauds the determination to press on despite challenges and ill-intentioned others. Wong also questions whether the goals that many of us aspire to are truly worthwhile, and reminds us to count our blessings and appreciate the little things in life.
Venue: Confluence Art Space, 2 Havelock Road, #02-29 Havelock 2, Singapore 059763
When: 26 Nov - 23 Dec 2022,
