About Yeo Shih Yun
Yeo Shih Yun (b. 1976, Singapore) is a recognized Singaporean artist whose innovative approach to ink painting got her international acclaim. She obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the National University of Singapore in 1998.
Soon Yeo would pursue a Diploma in Communication Design at LASALLE-SIA College of the Arts in 2001. Consequently, she gained the Post Baccalaureate Programme in painting at the San Francisco Art Institute in 2002.
Approaching Ink Painting
Yeo’s experimental fusion of traditional ink painting with contemporary mediums, such as new media and performance art, has resulted in dynamic and unpredictable works that challenge conventional notions of the medium. Her unique creative process has earned her recognition, including a 2011 commission by the Singapore Art Museum and the People’s Choice Award for “Conversations with Trees,” which was nominated for Sovereign Asian Art Prize Finalists in 2012 and auctioned by Christie’s Asia. She has also won the UOB Painting of the Year Competition (Distinction in Abstract category) twice, in 1999 and 2007.
Exhibitions and Participations
Yeo has held exhibitions in major cities, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei, Shanghai, Tokyo, and New York, and has completed numerous commissions, including National Gallery Singapore’s “My Ink-credible Adventure” and her solo exhibition at Esplanade, titled “Chance Encounters,” in 2021.
She participated in the “NFTs + The Ever-Evolving World of Art” Tezos exhibition at Art Basel Hong Kong in May 2022 and the “Digital Baroque” exhibition and auction curated by 4ART NFT+ marketplace and minted on Palm network.
In 2017, Yeo published her first book, “INKPULSE: the art of Yeo Shih Yun,” which chronicles her creative process and highlights her pursuit of new depths and perspectives within and beyond Abstract Expressionism. Additionally, Yeo is the Founder of “INSTINC,” an independent art space in Singapore.
Yeo’s innovative approach to ink art has significantly impacted the development of the medium both in Singapore and internationally.
We had an exclusive interview with her!
Hello Yeo! When or how have you understood you wanted to become an artist?
Growing up, my mum encouraged me to do whatever interested me. By age 5, I knew art would be essential to my world. Despite my deepest desires of creating art , I did not get to embark on any formal art training until my early twenties – compelled by the practical concerns of life. For my mum’s peace of mind, I had to complete my Business degree course from NUS before I could finally pursue my true passion and enroll myself in LASALLE College of the Arts. At that time, my decision was frowned upon and appeared to puzzle many, but I knew without a doubt that art was the epicenter of my core and calling for life. I could not imagine anything else.
Please briefly describe your technique and tell us what drives you to make art.
As an artist, I constantly draw to the rich history and limitless potential of ink painting. My passion for this ancient medium has led me on a journey of experimentation and exploration, fusing traditional techniques with contemporary mediums and unconventional tools.
One of my unique approaches to creating art is my collaboration with unexpected partners. I find inspiration in nature’s organic and unpredictable forms and often work in tandem with trees to create abstract compositions. For this, I also enjoy using non-traditional tools such as remote control cars and toy robots, infusing my works with playful and whimsical energy.
Through this unorthodox approach, I seek to challenge the boundaries of traditional ink painting and explore new depths of creativity. I embrace the fluidity and spontaneity of movement, allowing chance and improvisation to play a role in my works.
My creative process is constant experimentation and exploration, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with ink painting. By embracing the unexpected and collaborating with the world around me, I seek to create truly unique works that reflect my passion for this ancient medium.
Ultimately, my art reflects my deep respect for the rich history and limitless potential of ink painting and my unwavering commitment to exploring its endless possibilities.
What is the main feature that has changed in your work or practice?
My works are becoming more prominent in scale, and also, since 2020, I have used more digital media in my works,
Which artist primarily inspires your work? And is there something else, outside visual arts, that keeps you motivated?
Hard to name just one. Some are Robert Motherwell, Toko Shinoda, and Chua Ek Kay. I love traveling!
How would you like people to engage with your work?
Feel the energy from the ‘works.’
Spread the word! Do you have anything exciting on the horizon?
Yes, I have an upcoming solo show named SEPTUM that will open from 21-30 APRIL at SUPPER HOUSE in Singapore.
In Latin, SEPTUM means Seven, representing the series of seven paintings and poems. This exhibition aims to break down the perceived separations between art forms, creating an immersive installation.
The paintings, created with industrial sponges, are a result of masterful control of the water-based medium. Poet Euginia Tan crafted
seven abstract text poems in response to each painting, infusing a visual layer to the words. The exhibition will also be documented in a limited edition publication.
SEPTUM is a new chapter for Yeo Shih Yun, pushing her boundaries with her techniques, medium, and expression. The artworks bear her signature bold strokes and strong composition but with fresh colors and newfound
fluidity.
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