Bridges : 30 artists, 9 nationalities

About

Bridges brings together 30 emerging artists from 9 different countries, including Canada, China, France, India, Malaysia, Slovakia, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States. Many first crossed paths during their master’s studies at University of the Arts London or the Royal College of Art. Since then, some have returned home, others have relocated or continued their practice across borders.

This exhibition marks a rare moment of reunion; artists reuniting in the city that first brought them together, each carrying new stories shaped by distance, place, and time. Though their practices vary, they share a desire to connect across cultures, places, and personal histories.

Inspired by the book “ Art as Therapy ”, Bridges aims for something intimate. Each piece is paired with a one-sentence story written in English and the artist’s native language. These stories offer a personal glimpse into the artwork, making the experience more accessible and human. By adding the artist’s native language, we invite emotional connection, one that may speak directly to someone who shares it.

Bridges is about connection, between artwork and artist, artist and audience, and among the artists themselves. Everything in the space is part of that act of bridging.

This exhibition is also an invitation to take part. On a world map, you are welcome to pin where you are from and see how far we have all come to be here. Nearby, a book awaits your reflections. Write where you come from, what you hope for, or a message to someone far away, and let it join the stories already shared by others.

Bridges is built with sustainability in mind. Materials are reused and repurposed wherever possible.

This is the first edition of an ongoing project that aims to grow into a travelling platform for art, dialogue, and connection.

Written by Xuan Hew & Sano Bhawika

Curated by Xuan Hew, Emma Jordan & Briana McCarthy