Ruben Pang, Soe Yu Nwe and Yee I-Lann reflect on their artistic practices
By A&M

Key Points

The livelihoods of artists as part of the informal economy are even more precarious than before.

Meaningful and sometimes unexpected connections are made online and in person as artists adapt to restrictive circumstances.

The value of rest for an effective artistic practice is coming to the fore.

We wrap up Day 3 of PIVOT with an introspective conversation about how artists adapt their individual practices to the current situation. Moderated by Ian Tee, Associate Editor of Art & Market, the panel included artists Ruben Pang, Soe Yu Nwe and Yee I-Lann.

Here are our three takeaways from the panel:

The livelihoods of artists as part of the informal economy are even more precarious than before. The panellists ruminated on how the pandemic has necessitated changes in the way they work. Ruben pointed out that the current pandemic especially disrupts opportunities for emerging artists.

Meaningful and sometimes unexpected connections are made online and in person as artists adapt to restrictive circumstances. Soe Yu Nwe talked about filming demonstrations to fulfill her teaching engagements overseas. Ruben as both artist and musician is using the time to hone his guitar-playing skills and engage with other artists online. I-Lann is glad to continue working with her colleagues in the co-working space they occupy and collaborating with communities of weavers in Borneo, as well as spending time with family at home.

The value of rest for an effective practice is coming to the fore. Ruben noted the unrelenting pace at which he had worked before, and the guilt he associated with rest. I-Lann shared the same sentiment, and pointed out that rest is essential for ideas to present themselves and percolate. Soe Yu Nwe talked about how staying put in one place has allowed her to focus on her health.

Watch the full recording of PIVOT Day 3 here:

We are also pleased to share our takeaways from Day 1 on how public art institutions are engaging with their audiences, Day 2 on how galleries are marketing and selling artworks, Day 4 on how the art world will negotiate borders and be reformed, and Day 5 on how art collecting agendas will evolve.

PIVOT runs from 15 to 19 June 2020, 5–6 pm daily (GMT+8) on Zoom. The panel is free for all to attend with registration. Click here to find the full programme details and to secure your spot for the remaining conference.