Vanessa Yeoh, ‘Sayang888', 2022, Ink, Acrylic and Thread on Rice Paper, 160x70cm (per work). Image courtesy: the artist.

Artist statement

Sayang888 is a drawing series that explores the emotional responses linked to Chinese traditions enforced within the social and cultural Australian environment. The progression of self-discourse is articulated through gestural application and layering of ink and acrylic - capturing tensions between the artist’s independent thought, identity and the acceptance/rejection of Chinese customs, beliefs and standards. Each segment is uniform in shape and size, reminiscent of traditional scroll artworks and memorabilia that often fill the walls of Chinese childhood homes.  

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