STOLEN
$600
“Stolen” is a reappropriation of the famous Willow pattern, a Chinese-inspired design originating in England in the late 18th century for commercial purposes, at a time when “oriental” designs were very fashionable in Europe. Technological advancements during the Industrial Revolution enabled these ceramics to be cheaply mass produced and elaborate designs printed via transfer.
The plate references various iconic imagery of colonial Australia and Alice Springs, bringing to light themes of cultural appropriation, European colonisation and settler violence.
This piece is an expression of my own identity as a first generation “Australian” of Chinese/South-East Asian background whose parents were born in Malaysia, a former colony of Britain.
It acknowledges the same colonial violence that exists in my family history, omnipresent on Arrernte country, towering over and continuing to oppress First Nations people on their lands today.
Stoneware and glaze
26 x 26 x 5cm
Artist Statement: Chris Ng is an emerging artist currently living and based in Mparntwe/Alice Springs. They consider themselves predominantly a visual artist but work in a variety forms- traditional painting, digital illustration, batik and more recently ceramics to name a few.
Their art practice is informed by their own personal experiences and identity as well as their immediate surroundings and natural, political and socio-economic landscape. They are first-generation born “Australian” of South-East Asian/Chinese family background and grew up in the suburbs of Sydney.
Today they live on Arrernte country, Mparntwe (Alice Springs). Their work is inspired by the beautiful desert country surrounding Alice Springs whilst also recognising the important and complex historical, social and cultural context of this town. Since moving to Alice Springs their work has developed to explore both the incredible beauty and challenges that exist in such a place, in a way that feels both authentic to myself and respectful to the First Nations people on whose land I live on.
Contact Tactile Arts on 08 8981 6616 or admin@tactilearts.org.au to purchase.
