Tay Eng Chye: going beyond the familiar

Malaysian-born artist Tay Eng Chye, 79, is showcasing a more intimate side of his artwork in a new exhibition. In his latest show, Unseen / Ob:seen, at AweGallery in Petaling Jaya, the artist reveals over thirty paintings and etchings from his private collection that have remained hidden for decades.

For an artist known for his tender representations of family, friendship, and human connection, this revelation of more personal subjects is intriguing. Yet, Tay remains unfazed by the juxtaposition. "Everybody has desires," he asserts matter-of-factly. "It's simply part of being human."

His works exploring physical intimacy and desire, often kept away from public view, are presented alongside his more familiar pieces. Tay continues to experiment with looser brushwork and spontaneous painting styles. Rather than aiming to provoke or challenge conventions, he shares these works for personal enjoyment, without the expectation of audience reception.

Born in a small settlement in Kedah, Tay moved to New York in 1968 to study art, later establishing his studio, Tapir Editions, in 1993. His distinctive style centered on everyday moments of family, music, and human connection has earned him a following of international collectors. While he is not tied to realistic portrayals, his paintings often carry personal connections, inspired by encounters and observations over the years.

The exhibition offers a glimpse into Tay's evolution as an artist, showcasing his willingness to experiment and try new approaches. As he concludes, "I simply want to try something different. I don't necessarily know where it will lead."