Veteran artist Datuk Tang Hon Yin’s abstract works deal with the relationship between art and emotion

Tang's 'Silk Road #93' (acrylic on canvas, 2017). Photos: Suma Orientalis

Some artists create because they have a message they wish to share. Whether received through divine revelation, personal experience or hard-earned study, this message is the creative force driving the artist. Veteran artist Datuk Tang Hon Yin, however, is not one of those them.

While some other artists value themes and expression, this Penang-based painter values ambiguity instead. He’s happiest if the impressions you get from his art are different from everyone else.