PAINTING WITH PASSION
Artist and curator Phillip Wong sits down with Tien Chew to discuss his love for the arts and philanthropy
Atrue patron of the arts, Phillip Wong discovered his love for painting at the age of six. Lucky enough to discover his calling early in life, he vividly recalls a deep desire to paint, and telling his mother that it was his career of choice despite not knowing what it fully entailed—just as long as it enabled him to paint and draw. Now, Wong who founded
Who do you admire the most?
Leonardo Da Vinci; I have learnt a lot from his story. I admire him very much because I can see a little bit of myself in him. He’s an artist that multitasks, which is very similar to me because I myself am involved with various forms of art. I organise, curate, paint, and market art as well as run my own gallery. I also work with the government as a board member on the national visual arts development board, do collaborative work and educate those willing to learn about art.
What can you tell us about your experience being an art curator for many years?
It has allowed me to understand artists better. When you want to curate a show it doesn’t necessarily mean that it will work, as you need to really understand an artist’s work along with the character of the artist as well. Sometimes they might not like the way that you curate the show and may have their own ideas. The most challenging part is actually funding an exhibition, but I am fortunate enough to work with corporations and do events for them at times. Being actively involved in the art scene also allows me to make the right connections too.
What is it about doing philanthropic efforts that appeal to you?
Charity is a must and all of us should do it, but we have to select where we direct our energy towards. We have talents and we must know how to use our talents to help others. Just like Uncle Ben once told Spider-man, “with great power comes great responsibility,” don’t be selfish, and do something good. Charity is also a calling for me, as I am compassionate for others. When I went to kindergarten, my mother didn’t have much money to buy fruits for me to snack on, so I would instead get a piece of tomato. I used to get laughed at for bringing a tomato. But my friend sitting beside me didn’t even have the privilege Artseni Gallery, has hosted many exhibitions and festivals all over the world. He is also no stranger to the industry, having worked with many international artists in the pursuit of artistic expression. Wong recently took part in Garden International School’s Artlive 2016, a three-day event to showcase artwork by students alongside pieces by renowned local artists, to foster art appreciation among students and their parents. to have a tomato, so I would ask the teacher to split my tomato in half to be shared with him. From that day onwards, everyone in class would have a fruit to eat.
Where do you seek inspiration from?
Everywhere. Even talking to you now is an inspiration. My latest series is all about the human mind.
How does Malaysian art differ from the rest?
We are different because of our multicultural origin. Our art is very rich and colourful and when you look at our paintings, compared to other countries, the colours used by Malaysians tend to be very bright.
Any nuggets of wisdom for aspiring artists?
Ask yourself and look deep in your heart, if you want to truly be an artist, because it’s not an easy industry. If you don’t want any struggles or if you don’t want to challenge yourself, don’t become an artist.