2 0 1 9 | IB DP VISUAL ARTS EXHIBITION
C A N A D I A N I N T E R N AT I O N A L S C H O O L O F H O N G K O N G
— ARTISTS —
WELCOME TO
K A I R O S The creative process is expansive and not confined to the studio. For artists, it is a way of life where you live and breathe the process. Inspiration, critical and creative problem solving, and working within the creative process are ongoing and moments of inspiration are often surprising and rarely predictable. One has to be open to the process, open to Kairos. Kairos: The perfect, delicate, crucial moment; the fleeting rightness of time and place that creates the opportune atmosphere for action, words and movement. To witness the high standards these young artists set for themselves and how they encourage one another other to find their voice through visual communication has been a privilege. They have supported one another throughout the challenging program, offering constructive criticism, often inspiring and challenging each other through both the more organic open classroom discussions and the more formal group critiques. The few pieces you see on display are only a fraction of the work involved in this journey. These artists have labored over research, experimentation, deep reflection and place of inquiry where perseverance and effort is key. Process journals that record their thoughts, plans, media experiments and attempts at working out personal interpretations are also on display for you to enjoy.
This is my tenth year teaching the DP program at CDNIS and there has been a move towards using more technology in the studio while still embracing traditional art forms. Charcoal life drawing studies juxtapose 21st century digital animations. Works created with oil paint and clay support ideas rendered using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator@ and laser cut out processes. Works that resemble ancient texts are displayed across from contemporary architectural models. Themes range from the globally important environmental issues, trials of searching for ones identity, to the more intimate nuances of family relationships. As international students few will stay in Hong Kong, however, the bond created by this IB Art journey will endure. While many will move on to top art schools across the world, for others, they might choose a different path. What is certain is that each one of these young adults have proven themselves an artist! Though it was never easy, it was worth it. Congratulations on all of your creative efforts, I am so proud of you all and am honoured to be part of your journey. It is time to spread your wings!
Catharine Ho Head of Visual Arts Department DP Visual Arts Teacher
Tangled in the Coral, 2017, Pastel and Pencil
What’s in the Egg?, 2017, Copic Markers
Influence (Part 1), 2019, Posca Markers on paper
Neon, 2018, Oil pastel on paper
Crow, 2018, Acrylic on Canvas
KATE
Control Issues, 2018, Copic Markers on paper
What is Human Nature?, 2018, Copic Markers on paper
LECKIE
Currently, at a time in our lives where we are expected to be defining who we are, it makes sense to me that my art should explore the ambiguous concept of ‘identity’. My art looks at ‘identity’ from a number of different angles such as: how we see ourselves and others, the extent of control we have over how others perceive us, and what qualities in our lives contribute to our individual identities. When creating my art I found assumptions I had long since made about my own identity come into question.
Death of Adam, 2017, Acylic on foam core
Well in the Meadow, 2018, Acrylic on canvas
Sink Water, 2018, Digital Painting
Clock Tower Asylum, 2019, Digital Painting
SIRIUS
Words in the Snow, 2017, Animation Still
LI
In my artworks, I want to showcase the various worries and struggles that one faces as the future becomes more and more pressing. Here, I explored the themes of death, disillusionment and the doubts that come along as a person grows up, the inevitables that everyone will face across one’s life — and more importantly, facing and addressing it head on.
Codex of Malign Curiosities, 2018, Mixed Media
Oblivious Division, 2018, Mixed Media
Progression, 2017, Cyanotype on fabric
Isolation, 2018, Acrylic paint
Incognito, 2018, Acrylic paint
A Moment In Peace, 2018, Acrylic paint
Layers, 2017, Paper
CHAREESE
LAM
Art has always been a wholehearted interest of mine, and the form of art that most captivates me is one which I can live and breathe in: Architecture. Mesmerized by how different designs affect our lives and how we interact with the environment, I aspire to become an artist who speaks to her audience through her buildings and contributes to her society through innovative architecture that improve both lives and the environments.
Cross Section, 2019, Mixed Media
Hidden Culture, 2018, Ink on paper
Enlightenment, 2017, Mixed Media
Blooming, 2018, Ink on paper
JOYCE
Vision, 2017, Ink on paper
The Old, The New, The Seen and The Hidden, 2018, Ink on paper
CHANG
Where are you from? It is a question that I always avoid to answer does it refer to where I was born, where I currently live, or where my parents are from? Today, those fears translate into my work, which primarily focuses on my challenges when searching for self-identity as a Third Culture Kid. My work allows me to communicate my culture to the audience that I was too afraid to respond when I was little, which is now, “I’m from anywhere I call home.”
Shanghai - October 12, 2018, Film Photography
Untitled, 2017, Acrylic on canvas
New Orientation, 2018, Mixed Media
North Point on a Gloomy Day, 2018, Mixed Media
Scuptural Pathway, 2019, Mixed Media
Pixelated Caps, 2017, Digital Composition of Plastic Caps
DICKSON
YAU
As an aspiring architect, I often try to incorporate art into my daily life. IB DP Visual Art has done just that. It made me think about art in every little thing in life; whether it is the curve of my coffee cup or the outline of the shadow cast on the road in front of me during daily transits, I try to make something out of it. In addition, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in the art course for sticking by me through thick and thin.
Apex of Sincerity, 2018, Oil paint
A Case of Blahs, 2018, Oil paint
Identité III. Breaking Bounderies, 2017, Water colour and Acrylic paint on Water colour paper
Springtide, 2018, Oil paint
Identité I Phoenix Puzzle Pieces, 2017, Water colour, Ink and Acrylic paint
TIFFANY
MEJIA
Once you start accepting the latter, you’ll stop expecting the former; remember this when you observe my paintings. With burden comes growth, in that it is your choice that kindles the touch. many things have helped this desire to grow, one that stays constant is that of art. I paint bodies to remind myself of the very thing that we all are, ultimately, the very beauty that ignites my interest in life is purely derived from those that are around me, each body tells a story, one so far from merely a profession. People are beyond the struggles they face. IdentitÊ II Blossom, 2017, Oil paint
“Confrontation”, 2019, Pen and Ink
“Atelophobia”, 2018, Pen and Ink “Manifestation of Malice”, 2018, Digital Painting
KATHRYN PAULSEN “Disparity”, 2018, Pen and Ink
“Wonderland Timeline”, 2018, Pen, Ink and Pencil crayon
oming from nothing….. C getting somewhat there. As I got more accustomed to the course I started to subconsciously incorporate aspects about myself into my work. Being someone who doesn’t express many emotions, I instead represent them in my artwork as a form of therapy and acknowledgement to myself. While naturally being drawn to the dark aspects of life, I like to combine clean lines, soft colours and eerie imagery to create a dark yet beautiful piece.
Fitting In, 2018, Acrylic and Glow paint on canvas
I’m Screaming, 2018, Oil Pastel, Colour pencil & Acrylic paint on cardboard
A Lone Penguin, 2018, Mixed Media
I’m Trying to Blend In, 2017, Pen on paper
A Caring Mother, 2018, Marker pen on paper
Playing ball with my Dad, 2018, Spray paint on canvas
JASON
Uncontrollable Anger, 2018, Ink and Water colour on paper
Influence, 2018, Mixed Media
HON
Throughout my time in CDNIS, I always enjoyed going to the Grade 12 art exhibition every year to admire each artwork that was created. I aspired and dreamt of having my own artwork displayed in an exhibition to my family, friends and the entire school. Now having this opportunity, it feels very surreal that it is my time to display my own artwork. I hope that my artworks evokes the same level of admiration and inspiration I found in previous Grade 12 art exhibitions.
BIRDS, 2018, India ink
Catch me if you can, 2018, Ink and Markers
Head in the Clouds, 2017, Markers and Micron
Amusement Park, 2018, Markers
CINDY
SUN
The visual arts is not just about making things pretty. Like a book, a song, a play, art is about making connections with the world around you through sharing a piece of your mind. Art is a window into the soul, capturing your sincerest moments of euphoria and revealing your darkest secrets. Art is a mirror of society, a reflection of yourself. You can’t hide from a canvas. But most importantly, art is freedom; it gives you the power to achieve anything, to be anything‌
Blend, 2019, Posca Markers
What Monster?, 2018, Papercut of white cardstock
A Troubling Journey from Past to Present, 2019, Papercut of calligraphy paper
City of Wealth, 2017, Digital Collage
Breathe, 2019, Animated Digital Painting (still)
Torn, 2018, White charcoal and Colour pencil on paper
NICOLE
CHAU
There is a strong tendency to live under a facade and hide under superficiality to mask any traces of imperfections. Problems are pushed away, and fundamental issues are ignored. Many of my works aim to uncover the hidden layers within our lives, and center around psychological ideas, turning abstract emotions into tangible images for others to better understand. A repeated image of flowers is often juxtaposed against darker issues to emphasize the deceptive nature of our world.
Behind Closed Doors, 2018, Acrylic laser cut and Pen on paper
Doppler, 2018, Acrylic on canvas
Dreamer, 2018, Acrylic on canvas
Palm Oil Spill, 2018, Mixed Media
Prior to Success, 2018, Water colour
Submerged, 2018, Acrylic on canvas
JACKIE
CHAN
Expressing abstract concepts in tangible ways and physical ideas in a non-pictoral manner, I’ve always worked in methods which communicate in a unique and obverse way which viewers would not expect. Reflecting on my DP Visual Arts journey, the artworks I create showcase the expression of self thought and emotions. Using a range of mediums and technique, I wish to deliver beautiful aesthetics and impactful messages within my work.
Thoughts, 2018, Oil pastel & Water colour
Yin Yang, 2018, Acrylic paint
Yue Liang, 2017, Oil pastel
Malleable and Vulnerable, 2017, Plasticine sculpture
Waiting, 2018, Acrylic paint
Wives, 2018, Digital Painting
YUET
SHAM
To me, art is more than just a subject I take for my IB Higher Level. I’ve always enjoyed the process of creation and I am thankful that I can do art during school as well. Art allows me to express myself and my creativity. I am proud of my personal cultural heritage and I aim to share the different aspects of it within my works. I also touch on particular subjects such as social issues, traditions and new cultural ideas. My work is a blend of past and present Chinese culture through a personal lens.
Tribute to Xi Murong, 2017, Ink and Water colour
Cat 1, 2019, Acrylic on canvas
The sleep of reason produces monsters After Goya, 2018, Charcoal
Cat 2, 2019, Acrylic on canvas
Whale, 2018, Marker
Cat, 2018, Pencil
Abandoned, 2019, Acrylic paint
KATRIN
ANWAR
My art looks at ideas and topics ranging from animal abuse to topics relevant to myself and the people around me. Ideas related to animal cruelty explored show the abandonment of animals and the conditions in which an abused animal may be kept in. By featuring animals in many of my works, I’m trying to communicate the abuse of trust in these situations, and to portray the helplessness of these animals.
Dog, 2019, Acrylic paint
Health, 2018, Color pencil and Pencil on paper
Distressed, 2017, Oil pastel on paper
Restricted, 2018, Acrylic on canvas
Gratitude, 2018, Acrylic and Ink on canvas
J O C E LY N C H E U N G
Split, 2018, Acrylic on canvas
My two years taking the IB Visual Arts, was a journey towards exploring one’s own, mental behaviours of the mind. Through my art, I aim to address issues such as mental disorders to expand one’s horizon of knowledge and understanding regarding those issues and raise awareness. I produce images that utilises self - expression to communicate thoughts, emotions, and explore concepts such as social issues and human emotions - this has enabled to me to develop skills in terms of analysing and evaluating the study of the behaviours of the mind.
Don’t Get Lost in the Crowd, 2018, Relief print on paper
Iridescent, 2017, Acrylic paint and Ink on foam core
� (Mother), 2019, Gouache on Water colour paper
Spectrum, 2018, Acrylic paint on CD
Mom, I Love You, 2017, Acrylic paint and Embroidery thread on canvas
Interconnected, 2018, Acrylic on wood
RACHEL
YU
“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” —Winnie the Pooh. My body of work explores my relationship with the world around me, including family, and Hong Kong culture. The recurring motif of flowers, used in some works, are a form of symbolism, reflecting identity and love. I have developed by exploring media like gouache and printmaking, as well as acrylic. I will miss the laughs and hard work we all shared in room 518, and thank you for being part of my journey :)
Sushi Platter, 2019, Water colour
Woman Holding a Balance, After Vermeer, 2018, Water colour
Bloom, 2018, Digital Painting
Expectations: Has Anything Changed? 2018, Water colour
PEI
Persona, 2017, Colour pencil & Soft pastel
Destruction of Freedom, 2018, Water colour
YU
SUEN
As a Chinese girl stuck under a conservative roof, I was raised to be different than my peers. I did art out of pure boredom from my inability to go outside. It wasn’t until my brother and I played games and watched cartoons together that art as a form of escapism became something I could truly enjoy. I was fixated on illustration and technical aspects of art. Overall, these two years challenged me to explore what I wanted to convey: Stories of my upbringing, bestowed expectations and restraints.
Arctic Change, 2019, Oil and Acrylic on wood Melting, 2018, Oil paint on wood
The Creation AI, 2018, Digital Animation (Still)
Caught in Your Crosshairs, 2018, Mixed Media
Fragile! 2018, Oil Paint on Glass, Laser-cut Acrylic
KAREEN
YEUNG
I believe in activism through art. I believe that there are messages that can cannot be soley understood through words. My work explores the notion of change brought by the advancement of humanity and its implications on our environment and society. I’m grateful for the opportunities the art program at CDNIS has given me to experiment and develop as an artist.
HELP, 2017, Paper and Acrylic on wood
Missing: Katrin Anwar, Tiffany Mejia, Jocelyn Cheung, Kate Leckie
The 10th co-hort of CDNIS Visual Arts IB Diploma Graduates wish to express their sincerest gratitude to everyone who has supported their artistic journey and made this exhibition possible.
And lastly, a special thanks to the tireless efforts of Upper School Visual Arts Assistants, Yukiko Wong & Iris Chang for their continuous patience and commitment to the students.
For their ongoing support, in every possible way, a big thank you to David Baird and the school’s administrative team.
It is the dedicated people who support our vision as teachers and artists that enables us to put on a show as wonderful as this.
Thank you to all of the visual arts teachers who encourage and inspire art education. Our students are a testament to your decication and passion for the arts. Thank you to the parents for the support and encouragement you have continually shown, all along this artistic journey. You supported these young artists to find strength and their voice through the arts.
“Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable”. Cesar Cruz
To William Lam and the facilities teamyou move mountains for us without even blinking an eye, we are so grateful! Also, thanks to Stanley Ma and the LLAC support staff for hosting the Kairos exhibition.
Invitation, Poster and Exhibition CatalogueDesigned by graphic designer Cindy Sun Catalogue Production Editors Iris Chang & Catharine Ho Student Pages – Individual students
ARTISTS CHAREESE LAM CINDY SUN DICKSON YAU JACKIE CHAN JASON HON JOCELYN CHEUNG JOYCE CHANG KAREEN YEUNG KATE LECKIE KATHRYN PAULSEN KATRIN ANWAR NICOLE CHAU PEIYU SUEN RACHEL YU SIRIUS LI TIFFANY MEIJA YUET SHAM
Canadian International School of Hong Kong