Jun Shya

By putting a mask on, we begin to play different versions of ourselves.

Intrigued by the process of unbalancing composition through distinct colours, crackled textures, and seemingly incongruous references, this series of paintings explores the theme of reality versus illusion in relation to the coexistence of present and past. By capturing the intimate gesture of push and pull in a ballet performance, each dancer becomes a version of another. It reflects the idea that a different version of you exists in the mind of everyone who knows you. Curious images emerge through a process of patient layering and excavation. Parts of the human body and face are either left blank or slightly concealed, yet we, as viewers, are still able to make sense of them.