An exhibition titled “Illumination – Zhaoying Zhang & Sisi Wong Dual Solo Exhibition” is currently showcasing nearly 60 works by the two artists at Sands Gallery, a permanent art space on the 6th floor of the The Grand Suites at Four Seasons.
According to a statement by the gallery, Zhang and Wong were first-prize winners in the painting and photography categories respectively in the “Time is on My Side – 2021 Greater Bay Area Young Artists Scheme” launched by Sands China in support of “Art Macao: Macao International Art Biennale 2021”.
The statement noted that the works comprise oils, sculptures, installations, photography and projections, adding that the exhibits explore the “cultural connotations of light” and how both artists interpret aspects of the artworks through light. They were curated by the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts’ Dean of the School of Arts and Humanities, Prof. Hu Bin.
Zhang, who was born in Guangzhou in 1988, uses materials “across cultures and times” to depict theatrical and carnival scenes, incorporating visual effects and sharp contrasts between brightness and darkness, the statement said. The exhibition shows his early work from the Myth Party series and his recent works from the Epistle series, among others, according to the statement.
He received an art education in the mainland and continued his studies in Europe. He is currently taking a doctorate degree at the Macau University of Science and Technology’s (MUST) Faculty of Humanities and Arts.
Meanwhile, Wong, who was born and raised in Macau, showcases her works through photography and videos, with the statement noting that light is a prominent theme in her works. Her creations displayed at the exhibition present her feelings of nostalgia for local culture as a local artist.
The statement added that she attempted to capture light through various forms of media to reflect Macau’s “cultural spectrum”, exploring light’s essence and possible meanings and deducing its various “postures” through video arts.
During the opening ceremony held for the exhibition last week, Sands China Limited President Wilfred Wong Ying-wai was quoted in the statement as saying: “We are delighted to once again provide the Sands Gallery as an exchange platform for artists and young art aficionados from Macau and around the globe”.
He added that his company hopes to foster art appreciation among visitors, inspire local artists and support Macau’s cultural and creative industries’ growth through the exhibition, as well as encourage artistic exchanges between artists in the Greater Bay Area (GBA).
The exhibition is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. until March 26.
Artist Zhaoying Zhang (aka Zhang Zhaoying) gives an introduction to his works on display at the exhibition’s opening ceremony last week.
Local artist Sisi Wong Si Teng introduces her exhibits during the exhibition’s opening ceremony at the Sands Gallery last week.
– Photos: Rui Pastorin
