Anniversary exhibition features 26 artists with disabilities
, Lianhe Zaobao
Held in conjunction with its 30th anniversary celebration and with the aim of building a more inclusive arts ecosystem, non-profit organisation ART:DIS features 26 artists with disabilities in an exhibition of over 60 artworks at Objectifs – Centre for Photography & Film.
Titled A Piece Of Home, the exhibition is curated by John Tung, with artists showcasing their favourite medium, from linoleum prints, ceramics, colour pencils and more. Accompanying the exhibition is an audio guide which was created in partnership with ArtWave Studio, enabling visually impaired visitors to similarly enjoy the artworks on display.
Many of the exhibiting artists have trained with ART:DIS since they were young, and some have close to 10–20 years of creations in their portfolio.
“Home is a complex concept that shapes our identity and sense of belonging. For these artists, this concept can be multi-layered, with their experiences and personal interests shaping these genuine and authentic artworks,” shared curator John Tung.
A Piece Of Home is on show till 18 June and includes public programmes
The exhibition includes a series of public programmes for people with disabilities and non-disabled individuals. From guided tours led by John Tung to panel discussions with artists and their teachers, visitors gain deeper insight into the themes and processes behind each work, as well as delve into the inner workings of the artists’ mind.
Noah Tan, a 22-year old autistic artist, started painting at 5 years old. At A Piece Of Home, two of his paintings featuring fishes in clean lines and contrasting colours are on display. To Noah, fishes remind him of home because he has a fish tank in his living room. “Feeding and watching the fishes makes me feel calm and happy,” he shared.
His mother especially proud that Noah is able to exhibit his work in an established gallery. “Drawing has always been his passion. As a child, he was hyperactive but yet if I were to give him paper and colour pencil, he can sit for hours on end and draw several works in a row. Who he is today is all because of art,” she added.
The exhibition is on show at Objectifs till 18 June, with visiting hours from Tuesday–Saturday (12pm–7pm) and Sunday (12pm–4pm). Admission is free, with some public programmes at $5.