Yes, some of the best works of art by famous artists are discussed, which reflect different perspectives and cultural backgrounds.
Thandiwe Muriu, “Camo” Series
Kenyan artist Thandiwe Muriu presented her unique photography series called “Camo” at the 193 Gallery in Paris. In this series, she created unique costumes using Ankara cloth—a Dutch wax cotton fabric popular throughout Africa. Also, she recycled traditional African hairstyles, local sayings, and everyday objects such as children’s toys, mosquito coils, and door stoppers into unique glasses.
According to Muriu, the idea of this series came from her own experiences, where she was the only woman in Kenya’s advertising photography industry. This series reflects her life’s struggles and her dreams as a modern woman who wants to maintain her identity while living in a traditional society.
She is now presenting her solo exhibition “I Am Because We Are” at New York University’s Gallatin Gallery through January 30.
Mandy El-Sayegh, “Net-Grid” Art
Malaysian-Chinese and Palestinian artist Mandy El-Sayegh’s “Net-Grid” artworks may look complex and disorganized, but they are actually very thoughtful. Her art uses oil and acrylic paints combined with collage, silkscreen, and hand-painted elements on linen canvas to create unique textures.
She has incorporated currencies, advertising materials, pop culture elements, and even references to artists like Piet Mondrian and Andy Warhol into her artwork. In addition, her father’s handwriting and stories of journalists killed by military vehicles in Gaza are also part of her work.
According to El-Sayegh, his “Net-Grid” series aims to look at current events in the context of time and understand how we read them. The series displays Gaza War events, which started when the Frieze London Art Fair took place in 2023.
Lehmann Maupin Gallery reported that during the opening day of the art fair, “Net-Grid Study (Euro-Joy)” by El-Sayegh became the first artwork to sell when a collector based in Jakarta paid $72,000.
Antonio Santin, Oil Paintings
Spanish artist Antonio Santin is known for his deeply crafted oil paintings. His artworks look so real that people often try to touch them.
His most famous works include paintings of carpets with intricate designs, which are created entirely by hand using oil paints. The paintings look like real carpets, folded and covered with thousands of intricate embroidery-like designs.
Livia Strauss, co-founder of Mark Strauss Gallery, shared a funny incident where a woman tried to rip off the border of a painting at an art fair because she could not believe that it was a painting and not a real carpet.
Alex Seton, Marble Jacket
Sydney artist Alex Seton displayed puffer jackets made of marble at a unique art exhibition. Usually people avoid touching the artworks at art fairs, but Seton wants people to touch his artworks and feel their texture.
He has made these jackets from Queensland Pearl Marble, which was locally available and which he often used during his childhood.
According to Seton, the purpose of these sculptures is to highlight the fast-changing fashion trends, the historical heritage of marble, and the search for security in society. His designs include inspiration from World War II RAF bomber pilots’ jackets, Gigi Hadid’s 2022 Met Gala Versace dress, the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, and an old Arabic tale told by his mother.
Gallerist Joanna Strumpf explains that Satan’s jackets make us think about the extent to which we use clothing to protect ourselves from the outside world in modern society. These jackets symbolize protection and comfort, but in some way they also isolate us from the world.
Nuri Bilge Ceylan, “Turkish Cinemascope”
The “Turkish Cinemascope” series by renowned Turkish film director, screenwriter, photographer, and actor Nuri Bilge Ceylan reflects his cinematic vision.
One of his key photographs, in which two girls stand in a small lake, affects the viewer due to their innocent faces and deep social context. According to gallery director Levent Ozmen, in this photograph, Ceylan has shown how boys and girls are treated differently in Turkish society. The girls in the picture are looking directly at the viewer, which makes their reality even more impressive.
FAQS
What is ART SG 2025?
Art SG 2025 is one of the largest and most prestigious contemporary art fairs in Southeast Asia, showcasing innovative art from global artists. It features a variety of artworks, including optical illusions and haunting photography, attracting art enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals.
What can I expect to see at the best booths of ART SG 2025?
The top booths at ART SG 2025 will feature immersive and thought-provoking art installations. Expect to find optical illusions that challenge your perception and haunting photographs that evoke deep emotions, capturing surreal and striking moments.
Who are some of the featured artists at ART SG 2025?
ART SG 2025 will feature a range of renowned contemporary artists, including both established names and emerging talents. These artists are known for pushing boundaries with their unique and innovative approaches, including the use of optical illusions and evocative photography.
Are there interactive elements at the booths in ART SG 2025?
Yes, many of the booths at Art SG 2025 will feature interactive elements where visitors can engage with the art, especially with optical illusions. Some booths may include augmented reality or other immersive technologies to enhance the visitor experience
How can I navigate the art fair to find the best booths?
To navigate the art fair, it’s advisable to use the official ART SG 2025 app or map, which will highlight key booths and events. Many top booths will be prominently displayed, and there will be guides available to ensure you don’t miss any of the featured optical illusions and haunting photography displays.