An exhibition of colours
Renowned abstract artist from Kuching, David Chew, is currently holding his second solo show at the HOAN Gallery in La Promenade Mall. Using colour blocks and strokes, he encodes his life experiences and thoughts onto the canvas and uses his abstract art as a means to reconnect with his inner strength.
Evoking powerful emotions through bold, unconventional compositions
Collectors are as important to artists as investors are to new businesses. It is important for artists to find collectors that truly believe in their brands as these collectors often appreciate the artists’ visions and somehow also share their views.
Recently, a local abstract expressionist was overwhelmed to find that one of his collectors was a former beauty queen and a business owner of a publicly listed company.
David Chew, the renowned abstract artist from Kuching, is currently holding his second solo show at HOAN Gallery in La Promenade, a pleasant mall located in an upscale area of Samarahan.
Chew’s exhibition is entitled “Come Into Your Own”. It is exactly 10 years since his first solo art show entitled “Encounter”.
Datin Seri Jacqueline Ngu, who is Miss Malaysia/World 1993/1994, and her husband, Datuk Seri Peter Ting, dropped by quietly to view the exhibition.
Now, how did Chew feel when he met this couple?
His reply was, “I was deeply honoured and grateful to have such respected individuals appreciate my work. It is always rewarding to see my art resonate with collectors of their stature.
“Knowing that my creations have remained meaningful to them for over two decades reinforces my belief in the enduring power of art to connect with people across time. I am truly thankful that my artworks continue to be part of their collection.
“It was truly heart-warming to reconnect with them because they have supported my art for 18 years. It is truly meaningful and gave me a sense of fulfilment to see how my artworks can stay with people throughout different stages of their lives, and I am grateful to have had this opportunity to meet them again at my second solo show.”
When met at the gallery, Ngu looked as ravishingly beautiful as the day she won the crown for Sarawak in Miss Malaysia/World and went on to represent the country on the world stage in South Africa.
So, why did Ngu prefer her abstract art?
This was her reply: “My love for abstract paintings began18 years ago when I discovered David Chew’s paintings. I have always loved abstract art because it allows for personal interpretation and emotional connection.
“It invites you to engage with it on a deeper level, making space for your emotions, experiences and imagination. I appreciate how abstract art can evoke powerful feelings through colour, shapes, and forms, giving each viewer a unique experience. It is not so much about what the artist intends but how the art speaks to me, offering endless possibilities.”
What draws her specifically to the abstract works of David Chew?
“It is his ability to evoke powerful emotions through bold, unconventional compositions. His use of colour and form creates a sense of movement and depth that resonates with me. Each piece feels like a unique journey, offering an emotional experience rather than a literal narrative. I love how his paintings invite contemplation and speak a language that connects with my thoughts and feelings in unexpected ways.
In recent years though, my overall love for art has deepened to include non-abstract paintings as well, as they sometimes tell stories and capture moments with more clarity.”
According to David, all of his paintings have a message. In his piece titled “Completeness” he explained, “Many people have been constantly searching for a complete life; others have had what is considered a complete life but still let it go; and many have it but do not even realise it.”
“Come Into Your Own” represents an introspective dialogue of artist David Chew at the age of 50, reflecting on his artistic journey. From striving for accurate representation to moving away from visual realism, and from expressing every emotion on the canvas to focusing solely on joy, he has gradually embraced the journey of seeking light within darkness.
Using colour blocks and strokes, he encodes his life experiences and thoughts onto the canvas. In an age of information overload and growing social detachment, his abstract art serves as a means to reconnect with his inner strength. The solo show also embodies the artist’s aspiration for the future: to clear away the inner dust and rediscover the enduring, shining diamond within.
“Expressing ideas through abstract art and interpreting them through abstract strokes are both forms of dialogue between hearts and minds. Our perspectives are shaped by our unique interests, experiences and circumstances. This often creates barriers to effective dialogue but also offers a unique opportunity for multivocal expression. We hope this art show serves as a forum where different minds connect and spark unique interactions,”
The exhibition is ongoing till October 13, 2024 at the HOAN Gallery in La Promenade Mall, Samarahan. For more information, you can contact the artist at Website: DavidChew.Art
