Written by: Tang Kai Xian

Ricochet is the overarching theme of the art exhibition by the graduating cohort of BA(Hons) Fine Art Students at Lasalle College of the Arts. ‘Ricochet’ refers to the action of a projectile rebounding off a surface. In this context, what an artist aims for can result in a different outcome from what was intended to create new meaning in such developments and divergences.  As artists respond and reflect, they create and contemplate. This self-reflection of the artists brings a glimpse into meditations on the past and present, of failures and triumphs – like the coming together of internal ricochets. 

This art exhibition showcases artworks by more than 20 artists, including Clarice Jocelyn Tjahyadi. Ms Tjahyadi’s artwork By Any Other Name deliberates the impact of the infamous Cabinet Presidium Decision 127 of 1966. This Indonesian law outlined the adoption of “Indonesian-sounding” names by the ethnic Chinese minority. For example, the Chinese family name "Tan" was easily embedded in the Indonesian name "Sutanto". The Chinese community resented it because names are an extension of one’s identity and cultural roots. Ms Tjahyadi is a Chinese Indonesian too. While Cabinet Presidium Decision 127 of 1966 is no longer in effect, it has had lasting effects on the Chinese community. This artwork By Any Other Name is the artist’s attempt to reconnect with her cultural heritage. Hence, her artwork aptly features a collection of 8 Indonesian Surnames superimposed on 8 Chinese Surnames. 

Another artwork to check out is Neaht by Claire Lim Jia Yi. Neaht is a series of 3 charcoal drawings featuring nightscapes. The nightscapes reveal an inner landscape filled with gloom and emptiness. It is akin to the difficulties in life we face. The vast wilderness suggests a journey of scary uncertainty whereby we may be at a loss of what to do. However, the windows of light drawn in the painting teaches us that no matter how dark our situation may be, we must look out and set our eyes upon the glimmer of hope. 

Quilted Memories is a collage of snapshots from the artist Arya Pramod Varma, childhood. It signifies the part of her identity the artist left behind when she moved from India to pursue her studies at Lasalle. The quilt pattern connecting the images is representative of the bond shared between the artist and her family. 

Ricochet is ongoing from 4 March to 1 April 2023 at Project Space and Praxis Space at Lasalle College of the Arts, McNally Campus. Admission is free. Find out more about this exhibition here: https://www.instagram.com/mcnallyfinearts/