Rust: Echoes of Memory explores the interplay between memory, materiality, and transformation through the lens of five visionary Singaporean artists—Han Sai Por, Koh Nguang How, Lee Wen, Tang Da Wu, and Vincent Leow. In this compelling exhibition, these artists delve into the impermanence of life, using mediums such as painting, photography, sculpture, and performance to address the themes of decay, regeneration, and the passage of time. Presented by Prestige Art Gallery in celebration of its 5th anniversary, this exhibition reflects on the gallery’s journey and its dedication to showcasing thought-provoking art that engages with contemporary issues, while honouring the legacies of the artists it represents.

Decay as a Canvas: The Materiality of Memory

The exhibition takes inspiration from the rich legacy of The Artists Village (TAV), a space synonymous with experimentation and collaboration. As an evolving hub within Singapore’s contemporary art scene, TAV has become a metaphor for cities themselves—structures that layer over time, incorporating the traces of past narratives and collective histories. Through their works, the artists explore how cities, whether natural or constructed, serve as repositories of memories and symbols of socio-political and environmental stories.

Rust: The Language of Time

In Chinese, the word for rust—锈 (xiù)—evokes a dual resonance: it speaks to both decay and the persistence of time’s marks. Rust stands as a metaphor for the transient nature of art, life, and memory. It encapsulates not only the inevitability of erosion but also the resilience of existence and renewal. In photography, rust becomes more than a symbol of deterioration; it transforms into a testament to resilience, capturing fleeting moments of impermanence and preserving them as enduring images.

From Loss to Renewal: Artistic Responses to Change

Each of the featured artists brings a unique perspective to the exhibition’s exploration of memory and material transformation. Han Sai Por’s works examine the relationship between nature and human intervention, reflecting on how the environment becomes intertwined with personal and collective memory. Vincent Leow uses rust both as a material and a metaphor for loss and erasure, evoking the passage of time in its most tangible form. Tang Da Wu’s art engages with the effects of environmental and urban changes, presenting a dialogue between rural and city landscapes. Lee Wen’s performative gestures and physical imprints reflect personal transformation, while Koh Nguang How’s photography captures overlooked moments, preserving the fragile and enduring nature of memory within TAV’s history.

The Enduring Essence of Impermanence

Rust: Echoes of Memory reflects not only the passing of time but also the enduring essence of what remains. Through these works, the artists offer an inquiry into how memory, transformation, and materiality intersect to create stories that resonate across time. The exhibition invites viewers to consider how art can act as a bridge, preserving the transient and fostering cultural and ecological awareness for future generations.