"Twisted Bodies Tell Their Tales" is a solo exhibition by Singapore-born Chinese-Australian artist Desmond Mah, delving into the supernatural realm through mythological tales of magical animals, legendary monsters, fiendish imps, and ethereal spirits.
Drawing inspiration from Chinese temple art and the Japanese Edo period artwork, Mah explores the supernatural demons and monsters. Through these intricate narratives and powerful imagery, he beckons viewers to explore the essence of humanity, from love and amusement to fear and loss.
Mah's contemporary figurative compositions adapts from the vanishing Asian paper effigy craft technique known as Zhizha*. His painting practice champions the materiality of paint and xuan (rice) paper, which he layers marks upon manipulated rice paper forms, transcending traditional boundaries and infusing his creations with a palpable sense of life.
As viewers navigate through the twisted bodies and tangled tales depicted in these works, they are prompted to confront the depths of their own emotions and reflect on the narratives behind the works.
An IOTA24 event