On view from December 2 – 9, 2011, at Element Art Space(formerly known as S.Bin Art Plus), Enchanting Memories–on Relief Linear Technique features over 30 works of nostalgic events during the impoverishperiod by Singaporean artist, Patrick Teo.
Deriving from the interesting and quaint events inspired Patrick Teo to coin up a fascinating theme–"Enchanting Memories"–a series of figurative abstract acrylic paintings blended with sentimental activity in 1950s. Each painting has a mirth, to each on its own there is a story to tell superficially. But to someone with a discerning mind would be able to interpret more fabulous and integrated tales–visually captivating and conceptually thought provoking.
Through his works. Patrick Teo attempts to recreate and retell the vivd images which reflected in his perception of life in the mid-20th century. This is exemplifies in Grains Carrier, which narrates about the river worker who toiled all day, every day, to deliver the burdensome sacks of rice grains to the warehouse. His contribution was indispensable to society but was often overlooked. And also in Taking Cover, Teo used light to shape up the fragmentations of light and abstract images, capturing the reflections in the water and how they mingle with the stilts at low tide. This is where the vertical illusion of light occupies the cool dark space with subdued vibrancy.
Teo’s discovery of the linear technique and concept was initiated in 2005 during his accustom to the orthodox method of painting. His paintings are dominated by relieved streaks of colourful tones, giving the subjects a humorous and sensational emotion. The semi caricature figures packed with the elements; humour, skepticism, hilarious gesture, body language, light effect and a good composition energized my paintings with spectacular effect.
About the Artist
Stepping into Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) for visual arts education in 1961 was the starting point for Patrick Teo’s career in art and design. During the impoverished period, although passionate about the visual arts, he directed his energy into Graphic Designing. It was 20 years later that he sought for something more challenging and embarked into jewellery design in 1983. Before long, Patrick won prestigious awards at international competitions for his creations.
In 2004, Patrick, who loved to paint since he was a child, picked up his palette and brushes once again. However, it was not as easy as he thought. When comparing himself to peers who had pursued a career in the fine arts, he felt like he had been marooned in the middle of a jungle. Despite all these, he soon discovered the signature style of vibrant, fluid and semiabstract acrylic paintings, using the linear relief effect. 2007 was a memorable year for Patrick. Galleries started recognizing his works and so did the media. Since then, he has become increasingly involved in the Singapore art community through memberships with Club NAFA, NAFA Alumni Association, the Singapore Art Society and the Singapore Chinese Art Society.
