Calligraphy, as an art form of writing, has developed different fonts over thousands of years. With the innovation of contemporary art, more and more artists are incorporating calligraphy into their artistic creations, with painting being the most common. However, Hong Kong artist Maysum not only combines brush calligraphy with painting but also transforms fonts into three-dimensional sculptures filled with popular culture elements, successfully subverting the traditional calligraphy!
Maysum has always been good at multimedia creation, and this exhibition combines elements of both Chinese and Western cultures. The most eye-catching aspect is definitely the three-dimensional calligraphy sculptures. The artist imitated the visual effect of brush calligraphy written on white character paper, so even though the characters are three-dimensional sculptures, each stroke resembles the brushstrokes of calligraphy. Below each piece, there is a three-dimensional vermilion “seal,” giving the overall appearance of a framed character paper. Additionally, the artist painted the classic logos of luxury brands on the three-dimensional characters, creating a more intense cultural collision in the artwork.
In addition, other three-dimensional works are also full of ingenuity. The sculpture of the character “wide” has a surface of tender green grassland, with a micro-carved old woman standing on it, making the work more story-like. Recently, maysum collaborated with Urban House Gallery to bring a personal “elegance and vulgarity for all to appreciate,” sharing her work with art lovers!
In addition, the exhibition also showcases a series of painting creations. Artists compose from the perspective of traditional Chinese landscape painting, yet the style and subject matter lean towards Japanese ukiyo-e painting, bringing a fresh and innovative style to the audience. Want to understand maysum’s unique aesthetics, or curious if her well-known lipstick sculptures will be featured in this exhibition? Be sure to visit in person!
Urban House Gallery × Maysum: “Elegance and Vulgarity in Harmony”
Date: August 19 to 27, 2021
Time: 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: 3/F, 10-12 Hanoi Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Urban House Gallery
Learn more: Maysum Personal Website
