In The Room
Opening :
Wednesday, April 20 2016 @ 7pm
Solo Exhibition by
Chong Ai Lei
Hosted by
Mrs. Deborah C. Iskandar
Mrs. Diana Ramlie
at
Galeri Canna
Jl Boulevard Barat Raya Blok LC 6 no 33-34
Jakarta Utara
Media Partner : * The exhibition will be held through May 10, 2016 In The Room Three years have passed since Chong Ai Lei held her first solo exhibition - 'P!NK' - in which the works she created seemed more calm and even behind the colors contained any sense of serene. But today, the artist who hails from Johor, Malaysia is back with a new series entitled 'In The Room', which appears slightly different, and appealing as compared to previous works; the band of colors seems to be intense filling each part of her canvas and the body languages and facial expressions tend to convey pensive thoughts. Since graduated from Dasein Academy of Art, Kuala Lumpur in 2005, the works of Chong Ai Lei focused especially on the theme of her nature. Female figurative often become the subject for the artist. Not merely depicting emotion but an alternate point of view uncovered more extensive definition. Ai Lei brought the surrounding conditions; experiences throughout our life, joy and sorrow and mainly our identity that were unconsciously submitted into a private space.
"The condition of one's mind while in a place comforts by emotions - a personal atmosphere." – Chong Ai Lei
In these ludic body of works, portrayed mainly on three young female figures in their room. Their flesh tones are smooth and fine as polished ivory, compliment by the vibrant ruffled sheets while their teasing gestures maintained dignified grace. The compositional aspects of her works are indeed different as compared to their antecedents. The flailing hands that used to cover the models' faces together with awkward poses are no longer becoming part of her paintings but higher confidence with robust postures and tranquil eyes that gaze towards the viewers are displayed. This latest series shows the artist's venturesome. An eye-level perspective would make us, the viewers; become an extension to her profound thoughts. With this, through her works, we can easily understand what is to be delivered. Assuredly, Ai Lei returns with zero boundaries, displaying her increasing strength in this exhibition. These positive elements were all channeled unconsciously by the artist and certainly, without any doubt Ai Lei and along with her works continue to grow into certain
prospects.
Ai Lei further explore into the complex nature regarding self- identity – situation of which a person desires to become liberated in this complicated modern world. This chosen direction seems essential as we frequently find that we are so wrapped up in our surrounding without a moment's hesitation that it can be hard to consider where we would fit inside the life fulfillment's spectrum.
According to the artist, bedrooms hold a passionate and emotional surrounding that impact entirely towards the person. The artist conducts the power of the female body when in a private moment or place. The space would eventually create a subjective form that eliminate unnecessary affections, thoughts, complexities and Ai Lei had portray the models with no signs of insecurities, as they feel comfortable, and by doing so open up a new realm of independence and possibility. In fact, the statement is supported by the elegance in the figure's manners; their vivacious, balanced poise,
desultory thoughts, gave them engaging charms. This prevailing facet would later enforce extended narrative between her paintings and the viewers.
Unlike her previous series of works, the artist has escaped from her comfort zone and began to explore new and different situation. Her travel to Bali was vital as Ai Lei broadened her understanding about the issues in other countries based on environmental conditions, which affects the search for inner self. Ai Lei also stated that she did not conform to any restrictions that occur during the process of completing her works. Though it is certain that a vigorous effort was made to combat the idea of identity and feminity, any coercion did not exist as everything is natural and for that, an intimate and natural result had involved in every technical part of her works.
In the midst of confusion the idea of searching for inner self requires keen efforts to achieve an emotional stability. Chong Ai Lei's series does not proven to be weak at all, in fact, this latest series moves far beyond the former to conclude the attempt made by the artist. Using the female figures to convey her messages, Ai Lei's context affiliate with her growing maturity level as a contemporary
artist. 'In The Room' reflects Ai Lei's effort to merge in the social context of the world. The constant communication, hustling and bustling of the city should be balanced by a pleasurable expanse. It signals the viewers into looking at a different perspective.
Though the artist most likely found in her tranquility of dispositions, even in her need of her imagination, a sense of rest and of exception from the aggravating impacts of life she is also seeking – in various alternative ways – for an answer to the inquiries that perplexed and her limitless curiosity. Sure enough, the feelings to be free, independent and impregnable become part of the direction of her new unlamented series. -Anas Afandi- |
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