No Friends But The Ghost (Ceng Beng)

Jayanto Tan created this ‘soft still life’ sculpture during the COVID-19 lockdowns in response to conversations or personal attacks related to race, class, migration, stereotype and identity. As an immigrant visual artist from North Sumatra, Jayanto cherishes the diversity of Western Sydney where he works and rests. ‘Ceng Beng’ symbolises imposed rest, a time to contemplate mortality and respect the spirit of the elders. This work-in-progress combines earthenware clay and embroidery on found fabrics that represent the spirit of the Deli River, where Jayanto was born, and the Cooks River, his adopted home.

This exhibition is presented in partnership with Diversity Arts Australia.

Exhibition Friday 10 October – Wednesday 19 November; window gallery on display 24/7, Exhibition Tours Thursdays 12.30pm – 1pm, see the website for booking and events details.

australiandesigncentre.com/object-space/jayanto-tan-no-friends-but-the-ghost-ceng-beng

Image top (l-r): Jayanto Tan, Acute Actions Exhibition Photo/s: Kai Wasikowski for 4A