" Art is such awonderful coping mechanism because you can
allow yourself to get lost in it and
you can allow yourself to be free. " - Rei
How did you get started in art?
I’ve always been quite artistic. I think I get it from my mum – she’s also very
artsy. I started when I was young, I would draw and do crafts all the time
and I always had a lot of fun doing it. However, back then it was just a hobby.
I didn’t think I would actually be making a career out of it.
What inspires your work?
Everything, really. The world around us has so much to offer. I love nature
so that plays a huge part in my paintings, but I think the biggest influence
and inspiration would be my own memories, feelings and emotions, which
is where I paint from. That’s what drives me.
I’ve gone through my own hardships and difficult situations. At one point, I
allowed them consume me, but I found a way out, I found my solace, and
that is in my art.
‘NOSTALGIA’ by Rei
How do you describe your art?
My art tells a distinct story. It is my story but it is also your story. As distinct
a story as to whoever looks at it. I think they’re thought-provoking, as a lot
of abstract paintings are, but they have meaning and purpose. I’d like to
think they’re relatable and that people can find their own happiness,
memories and comfort in my work.
What are some of the challenges you face as an artist?
My challenges are similar to many other artists living in Singapore. The Arts
is not as widely promoted and not conventionally seen as a “good” career
path for people here. It’s not a traditional “stable and lucrative” job that many
aim for. Thus, people who choose to follow this route get backlash about
money and their future, which all legitimate concerns. However, I think
people focus too much on that. If art is something that someone genuinely
wants to do, I think they’ll find a way to keep on top of things and be content
with what they have. I don’t think it’s ever too late to start something new or
to have a second chance – it’s all about mindset. Keep moving forward and
don’t give up – something easier said than done, but usually things happen
when we least expect them to.
‘Grounded’ series by Rei
What are your hopes for the future of your art?
I hope to continue to use my art as a springboard to raise awareness, to
bring people happiness and to promote the arts in Singapore. Our talent
pool is huge, but many are turned away because our society doesn’t foster
creativity as much as sensibility. But sometimes taking a risk is the most
sensible thing to do because so much more growth can be found just
beyond our comfort zones.
What are you most excited about for your solo exhibition?
Of course I’m excited to showcase my art but I think it goes beyond that.
This exhibition is really about my story and how I’ve overcome obstacles
and how I’ve managed to move past them — to move Beyond the Shadows
and come out of it stronger than before. If my art helps someone in some
way, that would be all my goals achieved.
Rei and her mom I-Lin
‘ Inner peace ‘ by Rei
‘ Inner peace ‘ by Rei on display at Suite 88 Home of Superbroadcast
What advice would you give to other young artists?
Keep creating, keep dreaming and keep going. I think we live in a society
that’s afraid to step out of the norm especially with cancel culture and social
media being what it is and being so prevalent in our lives. We’re always
being watched, always afraid of being judged, but criticism and failure is
what makes us better. If we never know, how can we ever improve. So,
persevere and break boundaries but also practice patience because as they
say, good things take time.
What do you hope to achieve with your art?
Through my art I hope to achieve more exposure for our community, to
promote it (especially here in Singapore) and to raise awareness on the
topics such as mental health that drive me to do what I do. Art is such a
wonderful coping mechanism because you can allow yourself to get lost in
it and you can allow yourself to be free. I believe there is no making a
mistake in art because it is all about personal perspective. There is beauty
in all things, we just have to look a bit closer to find it.
‘ Grounded ‘
