TOYSREVIL @ Altered Realities: A Jiangshi Introspection (Opening Sept24 at BLAXK at Action City)
It was as if you've walked into a retro-80s genre film set, with flying swords swooshing past you overhead, targeting the neon-lit blossom where the Jiangshi Junior stood, as if commanding all who walked through the doors of BLAXK, you, me, all the Urbanite Jiangshi of this millennium, as the hoards of Jiangshi had been decades back...! Look into the mirror of souls behind Junior, and you see the wretched Urbanite Jiangshi looking back... Welcome to "Altered Realities: A Jiangshi Introspection"!
TOYSREVIL had the opportunity to visit this exhibition on Preview Day September 22nd, in anticipation of the show's Public Opening tomorrow Saturday September 24th! Featured in this post are my IG-live video coverage (which I will embed a edited YouTube version after the weekend, along with my impressions andd commentary, cheers), and a well images I'd snapped, along with the official event press, cheers.
My sincere congratulations on the show Daniel! And for folks interested and offered the printed ribbon, note that the YELLOW is printed with Daniel Yu's name :)
Presenting "AKTERNATE REALITIES: A JIANGSHI INTROSPECTION" show curated by Daniel Yu X BLAXK!
Altered Realities: A Jiangshi Introspection will be open to the public at BLAXK by ActionCity from Saturday, 24 September 2022 to Sunday, 20 November 2022.
PRESS: 22 September 2022, Singapore — As the space for pop culture, art and collectibles, BLAXK by ActionCity (BLAXK) is proud to present Altered Realities: A Jiangshi Introspection exhibition curated by the immensely-talented Daniel Yu!
Set as one of the original local names in the collectibles scene, Daniel Yu is a sculptor working primarily with clay and resin. Heavily influenced by an upbringing steeped in local tradition and pop culture ephemera; his works combine both worlds of imagination yet remain largely shaped by his personal experiences. Best represented by his macabre-themed characters, including his iconic Jiangshi creations, Daniel’s toy releases see a cult following amongst the urban and subculture art scene.
PRESS (CONTINUED): Paying tribute to the Jiangshi together with 13 other key local artists, Daniel celebrates this macabre form as an artistic muse and inspiration — elevating the classic folklore character into a pop culture icon through showcasing various creative reimaginations of the Jiangshi at BLAXK.
Hop goes Pop! — when Macabre meets Art
Various Kaiju monsters including King Kong and Godzilla, as well as creatures like Aliens, Chupacabras, Frankenstein monster, Werewolves, Zombies and of course Jiangshi — all monsters steeped in various cultures — have gained popularity as modern-day pop icons, inspiring artworks and collectibles alike. The macabre theme has seeped into various artforms, celebrating the various narratives and visual imaginations stirred up by these folklores. The Jiangshi — strongly rooted in modern cultural consciousness by classic Hong Kong horror movies from the 70s to 90s — is undoubtedly one of the quintessential Asian troupes familiar to Singaporeans. More than just a cinematic genre, Jiangshi has grabbed pop culture consciousness as current generations who grew up immersed in this folklore mythology now seek the creative revival of the iconic horror trope.
Art of Daniel Yu — Maestro of Macabre
Inspired to create his own toys after being influenced by folklores and characters from his formative years, Daniel Yu started on his art journey through two artist apprenticeships — one with the National Arts Council (NAC), and one with local artist collective PHUNK. These mentorships played a big part in getting himself immersed in the local creative scene, subsequently winning the NOISE artist of the year award, an initiative by NAC, giving him the courage to dive head first into becoming a full-fledged maker and creator.
PRESS (CONTINUED): Since then, Daniel grew a large collector base for his art figures including various ubiquitous characters to him such as Bird Shaman, Lunar Beast, Mumbles, Terror-cotta and Zuco Banana. Jiangshi remains one of his strongest muse, as his Jiangshi Acolyte figures become his defining work and highly sought after by collectors and macabre aficionados alike.
PRESS (CONTINUED): Through Daniel’s eyes, this Altered Realities: A Jiangshi Introspection exhibition creates an art world of alternative interpretations of our quintessential Asian horror trope — the Jiangshi, through his showcase of more than 120 Jiangshi creations and other macabre-themed collectibles produced during his art career.
So Hoppin’ Cute! Exclusive BLAXK x Daniel Yu Jiangshi Junior (僵尸屁孩) To further mark this inaugural exhibition celebrating the art of Jiangshi, BLAXK by ActionCity collaborated with Daniel Yu to specially design and produce a new art figure marrying the signature traits of Daniel Yu’s iconic Jiangshi Acolyte in a cute never-before-seen form!
Designed exclusively for this exhibition at BLAXK by Daniel Yu, with only 100 pieces in production, the BLAXK x Daniel Yu Jiangshi Junior (僵尸屁孩) is casted in high-quality vinyl, and boasts 7 points of articulation (head, arms, hands and legs), with regular joints (not magnets). Recreate your favourite Jiangshi poses with this exclusive figure, or try out new poses that show off your Jiangshi in a new light!
TOYSREVIL: The 5.5" tall VINYL figure is on PREORDER at both the venue itself, and online (for international orders / ). Limited to 100pcs, each priced at SG$188 +shipping.
Art of Jiangshi reimagined by local artists
Paying tribute to Daniel Yu’s iconic take on Jiangshi, thirteen other key artists in the local arts scene further lend their creative lens to reimagine this intriguing art world inspired by the beloved Asian cultural icon (from left to right): Allison M. Low (@allisonmlow), ANACATHIE (@anacathie), ANTZ (@antz_rscls), Claire & Pann Lim (Holycrap) (@holycrap.sg), Clogtwo (@clogtwo), erikartoon (@erikartoon), FREAKYFIR (@freakyfir), Inkten Nadirah (@inkten), Jessica Emmett (@jessica_emmett), Mojoko (@mojokoworld), Ratking (@ratking), Sam Lo (@skl0_) and Zan Cheong (@zcxz).
The above thirteen special artworks will be displayed in two waves during the exhibition: 24 September 2022 to 20 October 2022 (1. Allison M. Low, 2. Clogtwo, 3. erikartoon, 4. Claire & Pann Lim (Holycrap), 5. Inkten Nadirah, 6. Ratking, 7. Zan Cheong (zcxz), and 21 October 2022 to 20 November 2022 (1. ANACATHIE, 2. ANTZ, 3. FREAKYFIR, 4. Mojoko, 5. Jessica Emmett, 6. Sam Lo).
PRESS (CONTINUED): Focusing on Jiangshi as the pop culture art form rather than its gory cinematic history, this exciting exhibition showcases participating artists’ inspired take on Jiangshi — from whimsical paintings and trippy artworks to downright quirky installations!
To note: Below images showcase a shelf filled with JIANGSHI incarnations for your purchasing considerations! From 10-incher tall vinyl JIANGSHI XL (made by Unbox Industries), to Daniel's RETRO JIANGSHI in BLACK (made especially for this show / SG$50 each), and as well his MICRO figures, and terracotta resin figures from FLABSLAB!
About BLAXK by ActionCity
BLAXK by ActionCity (BLAXK) is a space for all things pop culture, design and art. Set up by ActionCity in September 2021, BLAXK marks the 21st anniversary and growth milestone of the brand as the industry thought-leader spearheading the convergence of pop culture, art and collectibles in Singapore. Beyond curating pop art collections through partnerships with world-class artists & brands, BLAXK inspires meaningful and deep connections between all who share a common love for pop art and collectibles through serving as a creative and interactive hub celebrating the vibrant growth of pop culture and community.
About Daniel Yu
Daniel Yu (b.1985) is a Singaporean sculptor who works primarily in the medium of clay and resin. Heavily influenced by an upbringing steeped in local tradition, as well as pop culture ephemera; his works combine both worlds of imagination. Daniel's works offer a means of escapism from the real world, yet remain largely shaped by his personal experiences. His fictitious characters see a cult following amongst the urban and subculture art scene in both Singapore and abroad. (www.thedanielyu.com)
TOYSREVIL had the opportunity to visit this exhibition on Preview Day September 22nd, in anticipation of the show's Public Opening tomorrow Saturday September 24th! Featured in this post are my IG-live video coverage (which I will embed a edited YouTube version after the weekend, along with my impressions andd commentary, cheers), and a well images I'd snapped, along with the official event press, cheers.
My sincere congratulations on the show Daniel! And for folks interested and offered the printed ribbon, note that the YELLOW is printed with Daniel Yu's name :)
Presenting "AKTERNATE REALITIES: A JIANGSHI INTROSPECTION" show curated by Daniel Yu X BLAXK!
Altered Realities: A Jiangshi Introspection will be open to the public at BLAXK by ActionCity from Saturday, 24 September 2022 to Sunday, 20 November 2022.
PRESS: 22 September 2022, Singapore — As the space for pop culture, art and collectibles, BLAXK by ActionCity (BLAXK) is proud to present Altered Realities: A Jiangshi Introspection exhibition curated by the immensely-talented Daniel Yu!
Set as one of the original local names in the collectibles scene, Daniel Yu is a sculptor working primarily with clay and resin. Heavily influenced by an upbringing steeped in local tradition and pop culture ephemera; his works combine both worlds of imagination yet remain largely shaped by his personal experiences. Best represented by his macabre-themed characters, including his iconic Jiangshi creations, Daniel’s toy releases see a cult following amongst the urban and subculture art scene.
PRESS (CONTINUED): Paying tribute to the Jiangshi together with 13 other key local artists, Daniel celebrates this macabre form as an artistic muse and inspiration — elevating the classic folklore character into a pop culture icon through showcasing various creative reimaginations of the Jiangshi at BLAXK.
Hop goes Pop! — when Macabre meets Art
Various Kaiju monsters including King Kong and Godzilla, as well as creatures like Aliens, Chupacabras, Frankenstein monster, Werewolves, Zombies and of course Jiangshi — all monsters steeped in various cultures — have gained popularity as modern-day pop icons, inspiring artworks and collectibles alike. The macabre theme has seeped into various artforms, celebrating the various narratives and visual imaginations stirred up by these folklores. The Jiangshi — strongly rooted in modern cultural consciousness by classic Hong Kong horror movies from the 70s to 90s — is undoubtedly one of the quintessential Asian troupes familiar to Singaporeans. More than just a cinematic genre, Jiangshi has grabbed pop culture consciousness as current generations who grew up immersed in this folklore mythology now seek the creative revival of the iconic horror trope.
Art of Daniel Yu — Maestro of Macabre
Inspired to create his own toys after being influenced by folklores and characters from his formative years, Daniel Yu started on his art journey through two artist apprenticeships — one with the National Arts Council (NAC), and one with local artist collective PHUNK. These mentorships played a big part in getting himself immersed in the local creative scene, subsequently winning the NOISE artist of the year award, an initiative by NAC, giving him the courage to dive head first into becoming a full-fledged maker and creator.
PRESS (CONTINUED): Since then, Daniel grew a large collector base for his art figures including various ubiquitous characters to him such as Bird Shaman, Lunar Beast, Mumbles, Terror-cotta and Zuco Banana. Jiangshi remains one of his strongest muse, as his Jiangshi Acolyte figures become his defining work and highly sought after by collectors and macabre aficionados alike.
PRESS (CONTINUED): Through Daniel’s eyes, this Altered Realities: A Jiangshi Introspection exhibition creates an art world of alternative interpretations of our quintessential Asian horror trope — the Jiangshi, through his showcase of more than 120 Jiangshi creations and other macabre-themed collectibles produced during his art career.
"I strive to create work that is both visually engaging and has some form of cultural relevance to me. The Jiangshi Acolyte is a result of both my Eastern and Western influences. It adopts traditional Chinese iconography and also draws from the Western concept of zombies. Additionally, some of my favourite things to sculpt are organic looking textures. With zombie skin, there’s no limits to the sorts of interesting pits and pustules you can add. Plus, no one can tell you that you sculpted zombie skin wrong.". (@thedanielyu)
So Hoppin’ Cute! Exclusive BLAXK x Daniel Yu Jiangshi Junior (僵尸屁孩) To further mark this inaugural exhibition celebrating the art of Jiangshi, BLAXK by ActionCity collaborated with Daniel Yu to specially design and produce a new art figure marrying the signature traits of Daniel Yu’s iconic Jiangshi Acolyte in a cute never-before-seen form!
Designed exclusively for this exhibition at BLAXK by Daniel Yu, with only 100 pieces in production, the BLAXK x Daniel Yu Jiangshi Junior (僵尸屁孩) is casted in high-quality vinyl, and boasts 7 points of articulation (head, arms, hands and legs), with regular joints (not magnets). Recreate your favourite Jiangshi poses with this exclusive figure, or try out new poses that show off your Jiangshi in a new light!
TOYSREVIL: The 5.5" tall VINYL figure is on PREORDER at both the venue itself, and online (for international orders / ). Limited to 100pcs, each priced at SG$188 +shipping.
Art of Jiangshi reimagined by local artists
Paying tribute to Daniel Yu’s iconic take on Jiangshi, thirteen other key artists in the local arts scene further lend their creative lens to reimagine this intriguing art world inspired by the beloved Asian cultural icon (from left to right): Allison M. Low (@allisonmlow), ANACATHIE (@anacathie), ANTZ (@antz_rscls), Claire & Pann Lim (Holycrap) (@holycrap.sg), Clogtwo (@clogtwo), erikartoon (@erikartoon), FREAKYFIR (@freakyfir), Inkten Nadirah (@inkten), Jessica Emmett (@jessica_emmett), Mojoko (@mojokoworld), Ratking (@ratking), Sam Lo (@skl0_) and Zan Cheong (@zcxz).
The above thirteen special artworks will be displayed in two waves during the exhibition: 24 September 2022 to 20 October 2022 (1. Allison M. Low, 2. Clogtwo, 3. erikartoon, 4. Claire & Pann Lim (Holycrap), 5. Inkten Nadirah, 6. Ratking, 7. Zan Cheong (zcxz), and 21 October 2022 to 20 November 2022 (1. ANACATHIE, 2. ANTZ, 3. FREAKYFIR, 4. Mojoko, 5. Jessica Emmett, 6. Sam Lo).
PRESS (CONTINUED): Focusing on Jiangshi as the pop culture art form rather than its gory cinematic history, this exciting exhibition showcases participating artists’ inspired take on Jiangshi — from whimsical paintings and trippy artworks to downright quirky installations!
Cheong Zhaoyong, Group Brand Director, ActionCity said, “As the melting pot of interactions between artists and collectors, BLAXK by ActionCity is the catalyst for local creative talents and new art genres. Presented by BLAXK and curated by our homegrown maestro of macabre Daniel Yu, Altered Realities: A Jiangshi Introspection allows us to examine the enthralling multi-faceted wonders of Jiangshi beyond the deeply-established cinematic and cultural narrative that we are already so familiar with. Given the collective fascination with Jiangshi, we are also honoured to be able to excite and involve 13 other local key artists to create thought-provoking artworks with Daniel’s Jiangshi as their muse. Indeed, through the creative lens of Daniel and these participating artists, BLAXK is able to present a pop culture world where art meets macabre!”. (@theblaxkspace)
To note: Below images showcase a shelf filled with JIANGSHI incarnations for your purchasing considerations! From 10-incher tall vinyl JIANGSHI XL (made by Unbox Industries), to Daniel's RETRO JIANGSHI in BLACK (made especially for this show / SG$50 each), and as well his MICRO figures, and terracotta resin figures from FLABSLAB!
About BLAXK by ActionCity
BLAXK by ActionCity (BLAXK) is a space for all things pop culture, design and art. Set up by ActionCity in September 2021, BLAXK marks the 21st anniversary and growth milestone of the brand as the industry thought-leader spearheading the convergence of pop culture, art and collectibles in Singapore. Beyond curating pop art collections through partnerships with world-class artists & brands, BLAXK inspires meaningful and deep connections between all who share a common love for pop art and collectibles through serving as a creative and interactive hub celebrating the vibrant growth of pop culture and community.
About Daniel Yu
Daniel Yu (b.1985) is a Singaporean sculptor who works primarily in the medium of clay and resin. Heavily influenced by an upbringing steeped in local tradition, as well as pop culture ephemera; his works combine both worlds of imagination. Daniel's works offer a means of escapism from the real world, yet remain largely shaped by his personal experiences. His fictitious characters see a cult following amongst the urban and subculture art scene in both Singapore and abroad. (www.thedanielyu.com)
