Time Out at 40

Jing Quek | Stefanie Sun | Donna Ong

Donna Ong © Jing Quek

Donna Ong
Donna Ong is Singapore’s favourite contemporary artist, whose work – typically conceptual installations – has been described as ‘dark’, ‘obsessive’, ‘atmospheric’ and ‘funny’. This University of London graduate has established herself as an integral part of the Singaporean art scene, completing a residency with the Tyler Print Institute, helping to launch a new contemporary art wing at the Singapore Art Museum, and having her work on display around town, notably at Majestic Bar in Chinatown.

What does it mean to you to be a Time Out hero?
It is a real honour. It's a dream come true.

Who are your heroes?
My art heroes are Zai Ku Ning, Victor Tan and George Chua, and director Terry Gilliam for ‘Brazil’. The film conveys a dreamlike fantasy yet combines it with harsh realities. You never know what is real and I find that ambiguity inspiring.

You base a lot of your artwork on stories from fairy tales, myths, legends and the Bible. Who is your favourite hero from fiction?
Gerda from ‘The Snow Queen’ by Hans Christian Andersen.
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What are you most proud of in your career/life?
I am proud that I have always followed my intuition. I am proud of how I have conducted my career and myself, and dedicated myself to art rather than chasing a full-time job. I hope I have conducted myself well within the arts community. No backstabbing!

What is your favourite place in Singapore?
I love hanging out, drinking coffee in Little India and visiting the Sungei Road Thieves’ Market. I use a lot of second-hand, seemingly worthless items to construct my artwork. The market is a veritable treasure trove for me. People sell some curious things, yet more curiously, other people buy them!

What is your favourite personal moment?
Going to Mustafa at 3am and it being full of frenzied shoppers! Only in Singapore.

What are your hopes for Singapore for the future?
I would like Singapore to use its economic and environmental advantages, and involve itself in a positive way with our neighbours. We can learn things from our neighbours to help us retain our unique Asian identity. It is an advantage to have a distinctive identity and culture, particularly artistically, in an increasingly homogenous world.

Time Out means…
Time Out is more than a listings magazine; it is a tastemaker. The writing is good and the opinions challenge. I trust the reviews – they are not about making someone or something look good. What can I say – I am a big fan.
Interview Tolla Duke

www.timeout.com/singapore

Jing Quek | Stefanie Sun | Donna Ong