Everyday over the next few weeks, we will be highlighting the shortlisted artists for The 2022 Sovereign Asian Art Prize – the 18th edition of Asia’s most prestigious prize for contemporary artists. Selected from over 400 entries, the finalists hail from 16 countries and regions across Asia-Pacific. Of the artists, 27 are new to The Prize – appearing in our shortlist for the first time. Read on to discover more about our finalists, their key points of inspiration, and why it is important to champion the work of artists from Asia-Pacific.  

Lai Kwan Ting (Hong Kong) was shortlisted for her work Draw Something, which adopts the traditional and meticulous style of Chinese painting known as ‘gongbi’. According to the artist, drawing is the art of representing a thought in one’s mind, especially for children.

How were you first introduced to ‘gongbi’ technique？

I was first introduced to Gongbi technique during my undergraduate study in Fine arts at CUHK. It was a very different experience from what I had been practicing. I started to learn Chinese calligraphy and Chinese ink painting since nine years old. Gongbi technique emphasises lines and layers of colouring, while ink painting more concentrated on the expression and the ink variation of every brushstroke. Gongbi seems like meditation to me. 

Can you tell us a bit more about what inspired this artwork?

The artwork is inspired by an ordinary scene with my kids. Kids like to draw, especially on blackboard. Sometimes they pretend to be a teacher, sometimes they pretend to be the parents. They are creative and full of imagination. The purple ride-on suitcase symbolised travelling or going aboard experience. The Little Green Men from Toy story symbolised love and loyalty to family if referencing their characters in the movie. 

What do you hope audiences will take away from your work?

I hope audiences can feel peace and love from the painting, moreover to recall the childhood memories maybe dreams that they ever have.

How important is it to support artists from Asia-Pacific?

Supporting artists from Asia-Pacific can help enhancing the art development among the area. Through the diversity of arts, we can have a better understanding  of each other with different cultures background.

To vote for Lai’s work, click here. The most popular finalist will receive the Public Vote Prize and USD1000.

To register interest in purchasing Lai’s artwork, click here. Artwork sales will be launched in person and online during Art Central, from 26 – 29 May 2022. Proceeds will be spilt equally between the artist and our charitable programmes.

Want to learn about our other finalists? Tune in tomorrow for our next interview. To read previous artists’ interviews, click here.