Art enthusiasts are in for a treat as ArtisFair proudly presents the Ono Kang’s solo exhibition, a talented artist hailing from Penang whose work delves deep into his maritime roots and family legacy.

“Forged By Time: Ono Kang’s Visual Diary”

Titled “Forged by Time: Ono Kang’s Visual Diary,” this solo exhibition promises a captivating journey through Ono’s life experiences and cultural heritage. Set against the modern backdrop of Fahrenheit88, this event is poised to immerse visitors in a world of artistic expression and storytelling.

From Maritime Traditions To Artistic Vision

Growing up amidst the bustling jetties of Georgetown, Ono Kang’s childhood was shaped by the maritime traditions of his family, renowned for their involvement in the junk ship trade and charcoal industry. Despite his aspirations to follow in his grandfather’s seafaring footsteps, Ono’s journey took a different turn due to his struggle with undiagnosed dyslexia, leading him on a path of artistic exploration.

Transforming Memories Into Art

Drawing inspiration from his surroundings, Ono Kang became an avid collector of artifacts from Georgetown, ranging from everyday objects to industrial machinery. These collected treasures served as the building blocks for his artistic creations, as he meticulously crafted sculptures and installations that encapsulated his personal memories and reflections.

“Forged by Time: Ono Kang’s Visual Diary” features 16 thought-provoking pieces, each imbued with layers of meaning and symbolism, inviting viewers to embark on a journey through Ono’s personal narrative. From tributes to his family and hometown to reflections on identity and belonging, this exhibition promises to evoke a range of emotions and connections.

A Collaboration Of Visionaries

Through the Lumina art residency program, facilitated by ArtisFair and spearheaded by Dato’ Sri Bernard Chandran, Ono Kang found the opportunity to refine his artistic expression under the guidance of seasoned mentors. Collaborating closely with Chandran, Ono’s raw creativity was channeled into a series of installations that offer a poignant glimpse into his past, spanning four decades of life.

In his opening remarks, Dato’ Sri Bernard Chandran emphasized the importance of fostering a nurturing environment for artists to thrive and innovate. He further stated:

At Lumina, our aim is to provide a sanctuary where artists of all backgrounds and stages of their career find solace and support to nurture their artistic vision without any judgments. Together, we foster an environment where every artist can thrive, innovate and inspire.

Dato’ Sri Bernard Chandran, Founder of ArtisFair

Join The Experience

“Forged by Time: Ono Kang’s Visual Diary” opens its doors to the public on April 24th, running until May 25th, offering daily viewing from 11 am to 9 pm (closed on Mondays). Stay updated on curated programs accompanying the exhibition by following ArtisFair’s Instagram.

Also, don’t miss the opportunity to engage with the artist himself and a group of sound artists on April 26th at 6 pm for an interactive music performance inspired by Ono Kang’s captivating installations.