Regalis Gemmiferus, Desmond Mah, 2024, acrylic paint on Juan paper with accompanying AI sound, 90 x 90 cm

Singapore-born Chinese-Australian artist Desmond Mah draws inspiration from Chinese temple art and the Japanese Edo period to delve into the supernatural realm through mythological tales of magical animals, legendary monsters, fiendish imps, and ethereal spirits.

Through these intricate narratives and powerful imagery, he beckons viewers to explore the essence of humanity, from love and amusement to fear and loss. Navigating through the twisted bodies and tangled tales depicted in the works, they are prompted to confront the depths of their own emotions and reflect on the narratives behind the works.

Mah’s contemporary figurative compositions adapt from the vanishing Asian paper effigy craft technique known as Zhizha. His practice champions the materiality of layers of paint on xuan (rice) paper, transcending traditional boundaries and infusing his creations with a palpable sense of life.