Discovering Art Brut at the BACC

I am not an articulate art enthusiast; I like what I like and often can’t tell you why. I don’t always know or understand the artist’s intent, or the technical aspects of a work, but simply respond on an emotive level.  Having said this, I have learnt that discovering some background and context does help frame a piece of work and helps me to unpack it, and ultimately to appreciate it better.

Have a Seat

Thinking of IM Pei:  his philosophy of design spaces (form flowing from function), his tremendous impact on the world of architecture & art (pushing boundaries, paving the way for art alive); the legacy he leaves for our living & viewing pleasure, for our imaginations.

The Changing Seasons: February 2019

It has been another one of those mind-stretching months, with a Poetry Workshop every Sunday afternoon, art exhibitions, and problem solving in the kitchen.

Moving Art

Stone, steel, silks, stains, syllables.

If asked, most of us would classify these are non-living. Yet, the artists in us are able to create movement, bring to life creations with these and other media.

Finding Treasure: Five Minutes with a Greenhouse

One sleep on the plane this past Friday and suddenly, Lovely Daughters and I miraculously find ourselves transported from rainy, humid & hot Singapore to rainy, grey & cold London! Grey & Cold are by no means a criticism – this is the way we like our weather!

The Wonderful World of Podcasts

I find myself in the world of podcasts rather belatedly, all of a sudden immersed in this fantastic place of possibilities, where one can immerse oneself in programmes ranging from Gin & Botanicals (BBC4: Food Programme) to the Migration of Birds (BBC4 Radio: In Our Time) to the whimsical quirky storyworld of Nightvale (Welcome to Nightvale).

How do you express yourself?

This week I am challenged to think about how different people Speak Out.

I love Wall Art! and that they are used to express feelings & ideas which are not necessarily mainstream (see Feature Photo: one of my favourite sights at the head of Brick Lane, along Bethnal Green Road)

Robert Indiana: A Fascination with Numbers

Among the many Pop Artists who grace us with art for thought, Robert Indiana is one of my favourites.   I love the immensity & simplicity of his 3-D depiction of LOVE, one of which is currently residing in the courtyard of Winsland House II.

Murals in Ipoh

I adore outdoor art!

Some 10 years ago after visiting the Hakone Open Air Museum, I decided my favourite sort of art would be found outdoors. Don’t get me wrong, I would jump at the opportunity to revisit the National Gallery in London or the Musee d’Orsay in Paris, but there is just something about a sculpture garden, or a tromp l’oeil, or a mural.

The Marvel & Muddle of the English Language

It is a wonder to me how the English language can be so beautiful and in turn, be so confusing!

Trying to explain to Younger Daughter how to pronounce words based on phonics principles have backfired numerous times (eg. though & bough, here & where). Or why words like “minute” and “windy” is pronounced differently given context. I also find myself saying: “Just memorise how to spell it, don’t bother sounding it out!”