Artist Profile - Jennifer Tan
Jennifer Tan (b. 1965) is from Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia and is a self-taught artist and a widely respected art mentor with students around the world. After working in the airline industry, she returned to her first love of painting over 20 years ago. Jennifer was based in Hong Kong and Malaysia and has produced a wide range of work as she developed as an artist, from real life to abstraction. She would now describe herself as 'semi-abstract blended with real world inspiration'. Jennifer has owned galleries and studios in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia whilst having a working studio in Hong Kong. She has had a number of exhibitions including solo across Asia and has collectors from a range of countries.
Jennifer views her art as conversation starters that bring people together to share and explore art. As for the process itself she clearly states "painting is like giving birth and it all starts with a blank canvas".
Artist Statement
There are paintings that express beauty and there are paintings that express meaning. I believe the meaning creates the beauty. For a painting to fully express itself, the artist must be free to create without constraints. I start with simple lines and dots, shapes appear then colours start to move in as well as movement and flow.
Painting is like giving birth.
The full emotions of the creative process takes over as I yield to the birth pangs of expression. Each art piece I paint has a story to tell and as the story emerges the art piece evolves. My art aims to stir emotions, start conversations and provoke feelings. Growing as an artist is an ongoing adventure. Like life, art should be a process of self-discovery and a greater revelation of who we are. It is an honour to co-create with the One that gave me the ability. It involves a joy that overflows, peace that subdues and patience that endures.
Just think of the impact art has for good, for healing, for expression, for depth, for richness.
And it all starts with a blank canvas...
Selected Exhibitions
Solo Exhibition 2019 Bukit Bintang City Centre, Kuala Lumpur
Tun M: Forever Legacy 2018 Perdana University Dr Mahathir’s 93rd Birthday Art Exhibition
Solo Exhibition 2017 Pi Pal Fine Arts, Publika, Kuala Lumpur
Shine 2 2015 The Refinery Art Gallery, Kuala Lumpur
Shine 1 2014 The Refinery Art Gallery, Kuala Lumpur
Group Exhibition 2013 Seni Art Gallery, Kuala Lumpur
Art Singapore 2009 Suntec, Singapore
Group Exhibition 2007 Stanley Municipal Hall, Hong Kong
Group Exhibition 2006 G.O.D. Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Group Exhibition 2005 The Studio at Hong Kong