ART:DIS (Arts & Disability) Singapore and UOL Group Limited jointly present Natural Geometry, a solo exhibition by Fern Wong following her receipt of the grand prize at the inaugural UOL x ART:DIS Art Prize 2023. This exhibition showcases over two decades of Fern’s artmaking, featuring more than 30 artworks of her current paper-cutting style alongside earlier geometric drawings and dot paintings.

As a self-taught visual artist with Down Syndrome, Fern draws inspiration from the natural world. Her artworks evoke the beauty of natural phenomena, reminding visitors of the interconnectedness of all living things. Through this exhibition that runs from 19–29 September 2024 at Objectifs, curator John Tung invites viewers to immerse themselves in her fields of pattern and colour whilst contemplating the complexity of the natural world.

“We are inspired by Fern’s achievements and the unique artistic vision she brings to Singapore’s arts scene. The National Arts Council is committed to making the arts accessible to all, and we commend UOL for striving to foster a more inclusive cultural landscape in Singapore,” said Low Eng Teong, Chief Executive Officer of the National Arts Council.

Platforms to share her world with others

Over the years, Fern’s work has evolved from simple geometric drawings into delicate paper designs crafted from found materials, with each piece taking several months to complete. Her current approach stems from a significant development in her artistic direction. In 2015, she turned to recycling church bulletins and a chipped penknife to create her art when faced with a shortage of her usual art supplies. This resourcefulness marked a pivotal turning point in her artistic journey.

Last year, Fern received the opportunity to stage a solo exhibition after winning the Mature Category (Closed) in UOL X ART:DIS Art Prize 2023. Her winning artwork, PAPERAZZI, captivated the judges with its intricate paper cut-outs, transforming ordinary bulletin paper into bursts of joyful celebration. Earlier this year during Singapore Art Week 2024, she was further in group exhibition Turning Points, showcasing never before seen paper-cuts in a unique format.

“Artists with disabilities don’t have the same access to resources and platforms as their non-disabled peers. The opportunity for Fern to stage her first solo retrospective show is an important milestone and recognition that artists with disabilities can achieve artistic excellence when given support to develop their talent and practice,” said Angela Tan, Executive Director of ART:DIS.

The UOL X ART:DIS Art Prize is Singapore’s first comprehensive art prize to recognise artists with disabilities at all stages of their artistic practice. The biennial competition drew a strong response last year, with over 300 artworks submitted from 17 special education schools in Singapore and artists from ART:DIS.

“Watching her grow in confidence and pursue her passion means so much to me, and I am excited to see the impact she’s making through her art. Competitions like the UOL X ART:DIS Art Prize have not only empowered Fern, but also inspired countless others to showcase their unique talents,” said Mrs Wong, Fern’s mother.

Beneath complexity lies interconnectivity

The natural world has long since captured the imagination of many artists and Fern is not the first in history to look towards it for inspiration. Sectioned into two distinct zone, visitors will first encounter older, two-dimensional works of Fern when she was first developing her visual language. Her technique of colouring, often times appearing like mosaic pieces from a distance, is a testament to Fern’s intuitive understanding of organic patterns. This is most apparent in a series dedicated to exploring the topic of fishes, flowers and shapes.

As visitors proceed deeper into the exhibition, they will witness a transformation in her practice to more fractal-like patterns. Through three-dimensional papercuts, Fern demonstrates her acute attention to details and her affinity for creating natural designs. A highlight of this zone is a three-tier chandelier of gossamer-like papercuts, and the accompanying off-cuts she has studiously saved from these creation exercises.

“We are immensely proud to support Fern in her debut solo exhibition. Her work not only garners appreciation but also highlights the contributions and influence of the disability community through the power of the arts. We are honoured to have played a part in her artistic journey and remain committed to continuing our support for inclusive art platforms,” said Liam Wee Sin, Group Chief Executive of UOL.

Accompanying the exhibition will be a series of drop-in activities such as art-jamming with Fern’s paper cut-outs and a keychain-making station, offering opportunities for creative engagement. In addition, a range of lifestyle products featuring her designs will be available for sale at the exhibition under ART:DIS Studio.

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