With a triumphant smile, local artist Lai Sut Weng showcases her labor of love at the Art For All (AFA) space. Her solo exhibition entitled Interposition is greatly inspired by the street culture of Macau but also infused with components of amusement. Housed at Art Garden where her art works are currently on display, the gifted artist gave us a few moments of her time to talk in depth about the inspiration and methods behind her creations.
How do you feel today and what was the inspiration behind this exhibition?
I’m beyond excited. It’s my first formal exhibition in Macau and I feel that it’s a great night for me. This exhibition is a special story woven about the city. I added critical scenes about the circus and I added highlights of animals and features of emotions of joy in the city. Every aspect of each work has a touch of animated elements. You can see bears, birds and rabbits and they all play an intrinsic role in each art piece.
I sincerely believe that Macau is a happy place where entertainment can be found everywhere. I hope that these artworks invoke a happy feeling to anyone who views it.
How long did it take you to prepare for this exhibition?
I prepared for this exhibition for a whole year. It took me about a month to create one piece for each of the artworks but it varies with each creation. My favorite is the one of the rabbits in a womb. I think it’s like me, someone who wants to step out into the street and that’s me wanting to break away from boundaries.
When did you realize you wanted to be an artist?
I studied arts in an Arts school and I took it seriously from concepts to history and finding my path. I have always been influenced by the arts and doing this give me great satisfaction. I truly hope that someday I can exhibit my works all around the world.
What do you think of the Macau art scene?
I think that it’s definitely growing. More and more people are interested now and are beginning to explore it and discover that it’s a fulfilling field.
What do you love most about Macau?
I love the old buildings and everything about it. I love exploring the old streets. I’m not particularly interested in skyscrapers as it exhibits a cold kind of feeling… I like the warm ambiance of the small buildings.
What kind of advice would you give to anyone visiting Macau for the first time?
If it’s a friend, I would definitely bring them to St. Paul Ruins, Senado Square and Fortaleza De Monte. It’s a mountain behind the ruins and when you stand there you can see everything. I love the square structures of the small houses. There is just geometrical aesthetic in these architectures and it interests and inspires me very much.
What do you think is the challenge of becoming an artist?
Focusing on your artwork takes time and that’s a real challenge. I think staying focused is fundamental and now that we have a studio here in Art garden, it’s really helpful for all artists in Macau.
What advice would you give to someone who would like to follow the same path as you?
I think no matter what occupation one person has, there should be an understanding about time management, setting priorities and stay focused on a particular project or work scope. Otherwise, it’s only a waste of time. I truly believe in being persevering and patient in all facets of my life.
Lai Sut Wengs’s exhibition runs from October 14 to November 6.
Interposition Works by Lai Sut Weng Macau Art Garden, Av. do Dr. Rodrigues N 265, +853 2836 6064
