Press Release

The Columns Gallery is pleased to announce a solo exhibition of Singaporean artist Teo Eng Seng. Born in 1938, Teo Eng Seng is a highly respected interdisciplinary artist who has significantly contributed to the visual arts scene in Singapore. He is known for his innovative use of materials and mediums, including his invention of the ‘paperdyesculp’, or pulped paper. This medium consists of mixed wet paper dyed and sculpted.

Teo Eng Seng’s upcoming exhibition from 16 May to 15 July promises to be an exciting event for art enthusiasts and collectors alike. Teo’s new works, which are created from plastic waste, continue to provoke and challenge social norms in Singapore and beyond.

Teo’s collections have gained him a loyal following. The National Gallery Singapore holds several pieces in its permanent collection, solidifying his place in Singapore’s rich artistic heritage.

Teo’s latest creations continue to push the boundaries of traditional art forms, utilizing unconventional materials to convey important social messages. His use of plastic waste highlights the issue of waste and pollution, and encourages viewers to consider their own consumption habits and impact on the environment.

Teo’s adept control of colour and textures invites the viewer to engage with the artwork in other ways besides the visual. The materials he uses to express his creativity are equally significant and crucial in conveying the artwork’s message. In some of his recent works, Teo reuses plastic medical bags to supplement organs with medicine. Plastic waste harms our population in the long run, yet these plastics sustain lives. Teo recreated these plastic medical bags into art so that these once life-saving creations can now be appreciated instead of dumped and turned into harmful plastic waste. Teo brings out the duality of simple materials and allows us to contemplate the meaning and purpose of the objects in our environment.

Teo’s art is not only visually stunning, but it also carries a deeper meaning and message. His works challenge social norms and encourage viewers to question the status quo, making them not only beautiful pieces of art but also thought-provoking and impactful.

This exhibition is an opportunity to experience the power of Teo’s unique creations firsthand, and to witness the evolution of his artistic vision. It promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend, as Teo continues to innovate and inspire with his bold and socially conscious works of art.

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Installation Views

About the Artist

Teo Eng Seng is known for his innovative use of materials and mediums, including his invention of the ‘paperdyesculp’, or pulped paper. This medium consists of mixed wet paper dyed and sculpted.

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Also Exhibiting at The Columns Gallery

About the Gallery
Originally established in New York, The Columns Gallery came to bear its current name in 2005 after its operations moved to Seoul. Over the last 26 years, The Columns has cemented its reputation as one of the most powerful contemporary art galleries in Asia. Its overarching vision lies in bridging connections between emerging and established Korean artists and the global market by increasing their presence on the international art fair and biennial circuit. Since the addition of a new space in Singapore in 2019, The Columns has expanded its mission to include the promotion of Southeast Asian artists to a broader public. With far-reaching roots in Korea and Singapore, The Columns Gallery is perfectly positioned to seamlessly navigate the global market, as well as to tap the limitless potential for cross-cultural exchange between East and Southeast Asia.
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Address
22 Lock Road #01-35
Gillman Barracks
Singapore
Singapore
Opening Hours
Tuesday – Saturday
11am – 7pm

Sunday
12pm – 6pm

Closed on Mondays and Public Holidays
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Singapore 22 Lock Road #01-35, Gillman Barracks
The Columns Gallery
22 Lock Road #01-35, Gillman Barracks, Singapore, Singapore

Opening hours
Tuesday – Saturday
11am – 7pm

Sunday
12pm – 6pm

Closed on Mondays and Public Holidays
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