Sabrina Choi
London, UK
“OCT1”
Acrylic and in on wood
40 x 40 cm
2019
Bio:
Sabrina Choi is a Hong Kong-born artist who is currently based in London, UK. She mainly works with 2D paintings where she merges her heritage with her artwork, creating work that allows her to express herself through colours and space, while embracing the quiet and shy nature of being an Asian female. Her practice varies hugely from mental health issues to politics, yet remained relevant to her personal identity, and aims to create a safe space for people to have conversations about major issues through art itself. Sabrina Choi has been active among the London art scene and the mental health support community in LDN; a participant in multiple group exhibitions, and has worked for well-known artists such as Song Dong and galleries like Pace(LND).
Artist Statement:
If I could explain the concept of my art in a short sentence, I would describe it as "futuristicdystopian world with a hint of pop chaos". I make art that speaks for itself and tells a story; usually inspired by a back story, maybe a personal experience, maybe global crisis. The audience are usually attracted to the art itself due to the playful usage of vibrant colours that reminds them of the innocence of childhood, yet will then be taken back by various disturbing elements in the work; sometimes the look of fear on protagonists' face, sometimes the feeling of confusion given by the art itself. Mental illnesses has always been one of a most featured topics in my work. In fact, my struggles with anxiety and depression has been one of the main reasons and motivators for me to make art. The blank canvas is like a diary page, and from time to time I would paint my emotions, struggles and feelings out, something that I may or may not be able to be vocal about, and have that sense of relief from it. I do believe that my art is not only a sneak peek into my phycological world, but also a way to give mental illnesses the exposure that they needed, especially in East Asia, where people are commonly hesitant in discussing about mental health. I believe that my art can create a safe space for people who suffer from mental illnesses to speak up about their problems, and also a creative approach for the general public to accept and be more welcoming to those who are suffering in this society. I believe that as an Asian woman who paints, I will be able to make at least the slightest change as I defy the norms of the traditional Chinese expectations towards young Chinese females, while making work about what was once considered as inappropriate and by doing so, speak my mind and save myself.