Back in 1988, Suzann Victor and her Lasalle College of the Arts classmates redefined the art scene in Singapore by occupying a whole section of Orchard Road with their paintings and abstract prints. Suzann set up a makeshift exhibition on the public sidewalk outside Orchard Point shopping centre, catching the attention of many and setting a promising path for her to become the contemporary visual artist she is today.

Currently based in Sydney, Suzann remains true to her roots as a Southeast Asian artist. She recently travelled back to her homeland to showcase her work during the Singapore Art Week at the renowned Singapore Tyler Print Institute (STPI) gallery. In conjunction with S.E.A. Focus – an exhibition showcasing the works of Southeast Asian contemporary artists – she presented her latest collection titled Constellations, which comprised over 20 new artworks. The presentation allowed visitors to explore the art of printmaking through light and shadow. Viewers were also encouraged to create their secondary light prints on the walls of STPI.

For more than three decades, Suzann’s work has been seen in major galleries in Singapore and Australia. Below, she shares what art enthusiasts can expect from her latest work as well as what’s in the pipeline for her in this exclusive interview with FirstClasse Malaysia. 

How would you describe the essence of your art?

Through my practice, I’m interested to explore the depths of human sensory experience, perception, and phenomena. In my art, I use materials that reflect the natural elements of light, sound, and the science of physics, in combination with engineered components and prefabricated items.

What inspired your latest work, ‘Constellations’?

I think it’s my interest in how to draw the potential in the material, whatever it may be. Sometimes it starts with the idea, sometimes its concurrent. Also, at STPI, there are all these art history books and materials that artists like me can use to get inspiration for our work.

What is your formula when creating a series of art?

I don’t actually have a formula for how it happens, but it just happens. It’s not premeditated and I did not expect to do this [Constellations]. So, during the process of experimenting with my ideas, this came up and I just went with it to see what the result was.

Where do you get your inspiration from usually?

I find inspiration in all forms of artworks – not from the subject or content itself, but from the profound meaning embedded in each piece. Although they’re all very subjective, it depends how an artist deciphers them.

Any advice for the younger generation who would like to pursue art in Southeast Asia?

I think it is to be true to yourself. Sometimes it might seem impossible but remember your art, your skills, and don’t throw it all away. No matter what your career path is, art might be possible for you one day. Don’t get discouraged. 

What’s next for you?

More exhibitions aside, I am really excited to see what’s the next idea and inspiration that will come my way. That’s the beauty of art; you’ll never know until you start experimenting. Let’s see where the wind takes me. 

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