Lutetia ART-at-TAC June/July Exhibition 6

June 2 - July 31, 2023 Shan Shan Solo Exhibition 姍姍個展

In June, Lutetia ART-at-TAC is delighted to present an exhibition of enchanting and highly skilled sketches by Taiwanese artist Shan Shan 姍姍

For her first solo exhibition, Shan Shan invites the viewer into the world of urban cats through hyper-realistic black and white sketches of cats and their surroundings. Done in graphite, charcoal and ink, Shan Shan’s images are charming snapshots of the little moments in life that bring the viewer sparks of joy, with which all pet owners can resonate.

Citing Scottish artist Paul Cadden as an influence, Shan Shan’s works demonstrate impressive skills in depicting realistic details using mechanical pencils and fine-point markers. Be it cats’ whiskers, their soft fur, or the reflections of light on hard surfaces, Shan Shan’s sensitive observation and meticulous rendering capture her obvious delights in the endless possibilities of feline mannerisms and expressions. Upon seeing her work there is often a moment of wonder - is this a photograph or a sketch? Furthermore, she uses candid compositions evocative of street photography to bring spontaneity to these images. The cats are always depicted from an intimate point of view in familiar settings of everyday urban life: grocery shops, book stores and apartment blocks. More than pictures of cats, Shan Shan’s works are vignettes of life in Taiwan.

Shan Shan’s infatuation with cats began in her childhood and has continued throughout her life. Born and raised in Taipei, Shan Shan has always been artistic and at a young age often took part in art competitions. After graduating from Fushin Trade and Arts School, she took a hiatus from art-making. She only picked up the paint brush again when her beloved pet passed away - she painted to keep the pet’s memories alive. A few years later, with encouragement from her family, she decided to start drawing and painting again. She chose graphite and ink as her media because of their technical challenges and the required attention for detail.

Shan Shan makes us smile. The mischievous behaviours and curious world of cats in the city are perfectly represented to invite the viewer to take time out and enjoy. Sometimes it is not the grand statements that move us, but the little moments in life.

Jessica Wang Simula was born in Taiwan but has lived in six different countries since adolescence before relocating back to Taiwan with her family over three years ago. Having worked in the arts in Shanghai and London, she is interested in how the arts can start new conversations, build communities and connect people.