PORTFOLIO – SIAN CHUNGH

F.A.Q.

Common Questions and Answers

What media do I use?

I mostly paint portrait-centred pieces with oil on canvas, occasionally working on crochet projects.

What subject matter am I working from/ what inspirations?

Magical Realism (the fantastical bridged with the real) is the main vessel of my work, and the subject is dreams that have bemused and resonated with me. I am inspired by William Blake’s compositions, Keerat Kaur’s style and Paula Rego’s narratives.

What makes my work unique?

My work is unique as the subject matter is constructed entirely by my unconscious. I also prep my canvas with a red underpainting to emulate flesh; which is essential for my portraits, and adds dimension where the canvas is left blank.

What piece am I currently working on?

My current painting ‘The Other Woman’, addresses stereotypical representations of how a subject of ‘desire’ is pictured, and the plight of other women (specifically other women of colour) who do not fit the mould.

Why dreams?

I am exploring a new way of recording. Akin to how words are written or sounds are embedded on CD’s etc, I am visually recording a dream journal. I find recording brings me solitude, as they are no longer my burden to bear. Translation inadvertently plays a large role in my work.

Painting these dreamscapes allows me to reflect on its meaning- was it a warning? Or foreshadowing? By taking the time, I am able to decipher why they have resonated with me.

F.A.Q.​

F.A.Q.