Ruben Pang – Prometheus

Richard Koh Fine Art is delighted to announce “Prometheus”, a solo exhibition by Singaporean artist Ruben Pang, from 21 September to 2 November 2024. This much-anticipated exhibition will feature Pang’s latest body of work, exploring the intersection of abstract and figurative art through a metaphysical lens.

In “Prometheus”, Pang continues his transmutative approach to painting, weaving together archetypal narratives such as The Quest, Voyage and Return, Rebirth, and Overcoming the Monster. Each piece in the collection embodies an open-ended story, superimposed upon one another, creating a rich tapestry of images that oscillate between abstraction and figurative impressions. The exhibition’s core lies in Pang’s desire to share an effusive and spontaneous approach to painting, inviting viewers to delve into a world where myths and modernity coalesce.

The exhibition is accompanied by an essay titled Prometheus Unbound by Michael J. Pearce, which delves into the primordial energy and creative force that underpins Pang’s work. Pearce draws parallels between Pang’s artistic process and the myth of Prometheus, the Titan who defied the gods to bring fire to humanity. Through this lens, Pang’s paintings are viewed as embodiments of the ancient logic of creation, echoing the first thought that sparked existence.

Pang’s work is a reflection of his deep engagement with metaphysical concepts, where the canvas becomes a space of endless possibility. His practice, characterized by a search for images during the act of painting, allows for a fluid and dynamic interaction between intention and chance. “I’m searching for images while the painting’s being developed”, Pang explains. “The painting needs to look formative as opposed to illustrative.”

Visitors to “Prometheus” can expect to encounter a series of paintings that evoke the mysteries of existence and the mythic underpinnings of human consciousness. The works are not mere illustrations but are formative experiences, emerging from the chaotic energy that Pang channels through his artistic practice. They invite the viewer to participate in a visual and intellectual journey, where the boundaries of reality and myth blur, and new narratives emerge.

Ruben Pang’s (b.1990, Singapore) artistic process centers on automatism, exploring the neurosis and drama of the human condition. Initially focused on painting, his practice has expanded to include ceramic sculpture and music, resisting binaries like abstraction and figuration. He embraces both experimental and traditional approaches, combining them within his works. Pang’s creative process is spontaneous, allowing imagery to surface naturally, likening it to “searching for a melody in white noise.” His use of oils, alkyds, and acrylics on aluminum panels highlights the nuances of his gestures, with the medium’s rigidity offering greater creative freedom.