Simple Wonders: Exhibition of the Paintings from the Collection of Andrew Johns Part Six: Imp Tsiu yun Hung

Some time back the AnArt4Life blog showcased some of the fascinating art works of Imp Tsiu yun Hung, an artist from Taiwan who believes that "ceramics is my key to the secret garden, my way to record living and feeling, a wonderland where I can release my imagination".

Imp gives recognition to Australia where she began her works in ceramics. She also emphasises that Collectors such as Andrew Johns share their passion for art work and give her the enthusiasm for creation.

The Imp Hung work chosen from Andrew's collection for the Simple Wonders exhibition is The Snake Charmer after Henri Rousseau. And it is a most delightful piece of art full of intriguing patterns, textures and colours in true naive style!

Snake Charmer after Henri Rousseau by Imp Tsiu yun Hung (Painting Collection of Andrew from the Hunter Valley, NSW)

If you click on the title of the painting (above) you will be taken to a site where you can see Henri Rousseau's original work on which Imp's ceramic tile is based and also learn more about Rousseau who was at first ridiculed for his style of painting but went on to greatly influence generations of avant-garde artists.

If you saw yesterday's post on the works of Johanna Hildebrandt you will notice similarities to Imp's work above. The reason is that both these artists have been greatly influenced by the work of Henri Rousseau.

You can read more about the influences on Johanna's style and how Henri Rousseau's artistic modus operandi shaped the style you see today by following the bookmark link below.

Johanna Hildebrandt Series: Enhancing Artistic Talent
Whilst a good dose of Artistic DNA is probably essential to the making of an artist, training of some kind, be it done formally or informally, is essential. Today we look at Johanna Hildebrandt’s training background & how it helped produce the breadth and depth of talent in this artist.

But back to Imp who usually bases her creations on famous paintings which makes them very entertaining and invites viewers to try to recognise the artist and title of the original painting on which the tile image was based.

Please take a few minutes to read one of our past posts on Imp's approach to expressing her creativity.

Imp Hung’s Enchanting and Challenging Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are often decorative but never have I seen work such as being produced by Imp Hung - a Taiwan artist enchanting and challenging us with artistic creativity. Image credit: Imp Hung

And I am sure many of you are asking How does Imp Hung create these images? And what about the black rabbit, whose name by the way, is Abe? Sometime Abe replaces a subject in the original painting, other times he observes the setting from within the painting.

Below is a link to one of our past posts on Imp desribing the meticulous steps involved in producing just one of these wonderful tiles.

Imp Hung the Ceramicist at Work
Taiwanese artist Imp Hung has many talents - she teaches art, she engages in tea making ceremonies but above all she makes the most amazing ceramic tiles based on paintings by famous artists. Today we see her at work. Image credit: Imp Hung

Imp Tsiu Yun Hung, is now a very important Taiwanese artist who has garnered acclaim for her exquisite ceramic tiles that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary artistry. Her creations are celebrated for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and the innovative integration of cultural motifs and modern aesthetics. Hung’s tiles often feature delicate patterns that reflect Taiwan’s rich heritage, infused with a unique, personal touch that evokes a sense of both nostalgia and novelty. Each piece is meticulously crafted, demonstrating her profound skill and deep appreciation for the ceramic medium. Hung’s work not only serves as decorative art but also as a medium that bridges the past and present, embodying a harmonious fusion of history, culture, and modern design sensibilities.1

The Simple Wonders exhibition being held at the Singleton Arts and Cultural Centre from 23 August to 3 November 2024. If you missed the first posts please use the search tool at the top of the post with the key words Simple Wonders to locate the previous posts.

We will have a day or so off and then return with more paintings from the Simple Wonders exhibition.

‘All artwork images © the artists. All Simple Wonders exhibition images used with permission of Singleton Arts + Cultural Centre.’

Special thanks are extended to:

Imp Hung who gave her permission for the images of her work to be shown on the Art4Life blog.

Credit
1. ChatGPT under instruction from Anne Newman