C. Khor
Pop culture artist Nigel Sense, an Australian currently residing in Penang, has set his heart on captivating art enthusiasts with his latest solo exhibition, “Kopi Jackfruit Monkey”.
Using a coffee shop in Pulau Tikus as his backdrop, Sense captures the essence of the area with his distinctive palette and vibrant style.
This unique exhibition promises a visual experience that blends humour, idiosyncrasy, and the energetic spirit of Penang.
A fusion of local culture and quirky artistry
Sense’s work is renowned for its playful and dynamic use of colour. He often finds himself drawing on his iPad while waiting for a train or bus, treating it as a form of meditation.
“The finger gliding over the screen, the line chasing the finger—it’s relaxing to me,” he explains.
This contrasts sharply with his studio work, which involves quick brush strokes and loud music, reflecting his raw and uninhibited energy.
Drawing inspiration from American abstract expressionists and 1960s pop artists, Sense’s style often echoes the translucent overlays of Ellen Priest and the gritty vibes of 1980s New York, akin to Jean-Michel Basquiat and Kenny Scharf.
“I love to explore the human condition and engage in social commentary through art,” he says.
This influence is evident in the rhythm, movement, and immediacy of daily life that burst through his canvases, merging personal experiences with urban vibrancy.
The essence of “Kopi Jackfruit Monkey”
The title “Kopi Jackfruit Monkey” encapsulates Sense’s playful approach to blending local culture with quirky elements.
“It’s a collection of artworks that reflect my daily life in George Town—the kopitiams I frequent, the lively markets, and the rhythm of everyday life near my studio,” he explains.
“Kopi” refers to the strong black coffee he enjoys at his favourite coffee shop, jackfruit symbolises the tropical abundance of the region, and monkeys represent the lively, untamed spirit of Penang.
Sense deliberately leaves the edges of his canvas raw, making the canvas itself part of the artwork.
“My pieces often feature everyday objects and scenarios, elevated to the extraordinary through vivid colours and dynamic compositions,” he says.
He embraces imperfection, likening it to building a sandcastle only to watch it crumble.
This philosophy is reminiscent of the transient art of kolam or rangoli, which is created and then casually destroyed, adding a touch of impermanence to his work.
“I’m not after perfection; I’m after freedom,” he states, echoing Salvador Dali’s sentiment: “Have no fear of perfection—you’ll never reach it.”
Sense’s paintings, filled with bold strokes and layered textures, celebrate the everyday with a joyful and bright palette.
A global artist rooted in Penang
Nigel Sense’s works have travelled far and wide, displayed throughout Australia and collected across continents from Asia to North America.
Notably, his bespoke artwork livery was commissioned by Porsche Australia for its 70th anniversary, later minted into NFTs and auctioned to benefit the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art.
Sense has also participated in prestigious events like the Colombo Art Biennales and Sydney Contemporary.
“I have always loved two things in life: travel and art,” he says.
Sense and his wife have travelled the world, setting up studios in inspiring locations like Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and India.
He describes these travels as “going fishing” for inspiration, a foundation for his paintings. Despite his nomadic tendencies, he feels a profound connection to Asia, particularly Penang.
“Since my first visit to Asia, I’ve been drawn back over and over again. It’s no surprise that my current work is inspired by living in Penang,” he says.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Penang’s culture through Nigel Sense’s “Kopi Jackfruit Monkey”.
Whether you’re an art aficionado or just curious, this exhibition is sure to delight with its bold colours and neo-expressionist flair.
Nigel Sense’s solo exhibition is part of the George Town Festival and will run from 19 to 28 July at Fiesta by Beaverly Chill Indoor, located at 71, Lebuh Nordin, Penang.
CJMY
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