Malaysian-born Wong Qing Xian strongly believes that art is a language that connects us all. Wong trained at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) and graduated with a Diploma in 3D Design (Environmental Design) in 2014. In 2012, Wong participated in a conceptual sculpture workshop organised by the Institute of Southeast Asian Arts (ISEAA) at the Academy. Together with three other NAFA students, he participated in a bronze casting field trip to Verona Bronze Foundry, Italy, in 2013.
Old Man and Bust with Hair (Busto con capello) are both figurative works conceptualised and created during Wong’s field trip to Verona. During the seminar, he experienced the traditional process of bronze casting under the guidance of Italian sculptor Anna Chiara Spellini. Employing an aesthetic sensitivity to convey his emotions, Wong creates the struggles of an older man supporting his family, yielding the darkness of slavery.
