WLG@SG

Merdeka Project – In(ter)dependence & A Tapestry of Us 

In August, Wei-Ling Gallery is pleased to announce two pop-up exhibitions in Singapore, featuring ‘Merdeka Project – In(ter)dependence‘ and ‘A Tapestry of Us‘, coinciding with the shared history of independence days for both Singapore (1965) and Malaysia (1957), which fall on August 9th and August 31st, respectively.

Merdeka Project – In(ter)dependence‘ by Malaysian artist, Ivan Lam, is a collaborative project that delves into the vibrant tapestry of Southeast Asia, utilising art as a medium of expression. Ivan Lam’s first partnership with Singaporean artist Joshua Yang addresses identity, representation, and cultural exchange, with the goal of promoting dialogue and seeking common ground between Malaysian and Singaporean creatives.

I find many similarities in our approach to our art practices, and there is so much to learn from each other. He reminded me of both my past and also gave me a sneak peek into my future,” Ivan Lam stated.

Having grown up in Malaysia and moving to Singapore as a young adult, I empathise with Ivan’s statement,” Joshua Yang adds.

This transformative project is motivated by the artists’ belief in the power of art to convey ‘A Tapestry of Us’ weaves together the works of seven prominent contemporary Malaysian artists: Anurendra Jegadeva, Choy Chun Wei, Ivan Lam, Rajinder Singh, Sean Lean, Wong Chee Meng, Yau Bee Ling, and Singaporean artist Joshua Yang. This exhibition explores the interaction of time, location, and identity, providing intimate portrayals that capture the essence of Malaysians and Singaporeans, within the milieu they inhabit. As Malaysia commemorates its 66th year of independence and Singapore celebrates its 58th, these artists venture into the communal achievements, concerns, and postcolonial legacies of Malaysian and Singaporean society and culture. They construct a discourse of human experiences that intertwines distinct journeys through life’s hardships, diverse identities, and cultural allusions.

Building on the gallery’s ongoing commitment to art accessibility, this dual exhibition aims to create an ongoing discourse and reflect on art’s transformative potential, forging a meaningful connection between Malaysia and Singapore and our shared history.

The pop-up exhibition is taking place from 25th – 29th August 2023 at Block 203 Henderson Road, Wing B, #04-07 Henderson Industrial Park, Singapore, 159546.

The exhibition is only available by appointment. For appointments and additional information, please call +603-22601106 or email siewboon@weiling-gallery.com.