Johor Bahru is a significant neighboring state of Singapore, part of the Malaysian archipelago. Given its geographical proximity, it serves as a major gateway to the Lion-city, as well as an alternative for affordable living.Y2ARTS Gallery will highlight the significance of the Malaysian state in its upcoming “J.B.: Jubilee and Beyond” show by featuring three Johor Bahru artists.The show coincides with the 50th anniversary of Singapore, but instead of looking within for talent as many exihibition this month are showcasing, it will look to Singapore’s neighbor that is so closely tied to it economically and socially.Influenced by Singapore’s heritage, a towering figure over the Johor Bahru arts scene, the resulting works carry elements of both states.The three selected artists will each show five paintings. Tan Suz Chiang’s works tend toward the abstract with his monochromatic watercolor “Happiness #3.” Denis Chai’s work “Inherit the past and usher in the future” is more tenuously political in its execution. The work features fading shophouses on a worn wood plank with the upper half in red and the bottom in white, perhaps symbolic of Singapore’s flag colors. Last is Wong Fook Liung who often works within allegories of personal and historical experience. His hyperrealist work “Under the Tree” features a young girl with a water canteen and canvas in idyllic nature.“J.B.: Jubilee and Beyond” is on view August 15-September 8 at Y2ARTS Gallery.
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