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Lot Essay
Adopting the aesthetic of child-like illustration, Bunga Jeruk's art is able to do away with the strict rules of realism and logic. Her fantastical landscapes are enchanting 'what-if' scenarios that are often played out between children and animals. Accessing the boundless imagination of childhood, Bunga Jeruk brings together disparate elements with whimsical results.
In Zodiac World (Lot 722), we are presented with a highly detailed backdrop of lush vegetation, grassy mountains, as well as snow-caped mountains. This fairy tale landscape is populated by the twelve animals from the Chinese Zodiac calendar, depicted in playful engagements both with each other, as well as with the surrounding environment. From the resting tiger in the foreground to the posturing dragon in the top left, the animals form a line that references the cyclical nature of the Chinese Zodiac calendar. Interestingly, the line-up of the animals does not follow the established order of the cycle, but are instead seen in a more organic arrangement. A young boy and girl are seen amongst the animals, enjoying their company against the festive atmosphere of brightly decorated kites and sky lanterns. Zodiac World is a playful exploration of the Chinese Zodiac story that is taught from a young age within Chinese culture, and is expressed here from the perspective of childlike wonderment and imagination.
A painting that evokes warmth and vibrancy, Bunga Jeruk's fine brushwork, and strong palette invite us to be a part of his fantasy world.
In Zodiac World (Lot 722), we are presented with a highly detailed backdrop of lush vegetation, grassy mountains, as well as snow-caped mountains. This fairy tale landscape is populated by the twelve animals from the Chinese Zodiac calendar, depicted in playful engagements both with each other, as well as with the surrounding environment. From the resting tiger in the foreground to the posturing dragon in the top left, the animals form a line that references the cyclical nature of the Chinese Zodiac calendar. Interestingly, the line-up of the animals does not follow the established order of the cycle, but are instead seen in a more organic arrangement. A young boy and girl are seen amongst the animals, enjoying their company against the festive atmosphere of brightly decorated kites and sky lanterns. Zodiac World is a playful exploration of the Chinese Zodiac story that is taught from a young age within Chinese culture, and is expressed here from the perspective of childlike wonderment and imagination.
A painting that evokes warmth and vibrancy, Bunga Jeruk's fine brushwork, and strong palette invite us to be a part of his fantasy world.