Challenging Norms: The Origins of Sarah Soh’s Fluid Figurative Art
Sarah Soh’s journey into the art world is as unconventional as her technique. She is a fluid figurative artist, a designation that perfectly encapsulates her unique approach to painting. Rather than relying on traditional brushes, she employs a method called acrylic pouring to craft vivid, expressive figurative works. This innovative technique involves manipulating the flow of liquid paints to form intricate shapes and patterns. Her fascination with fluid art stems from its polarizing nature; while some view it as an illegitimate form of artistry, Soh embraces its potential to redefine what art can be. For her, the challenge of creating lifelike figurative compositions using such an unpredictable medium is precisely what makes it a compelling form of expression.
Her passion for fluid art is deeply rooted in her artistic upbringing. Encouraged by her family to pursue her creative talents, she majored in art and began her career producing a variety of works. However, her artistic trajectory shifted about three years ago when she received an invitation to participate in an art fair at the Carrousel du Louvre. That pivotal opportunity marked the beginning of her journey into exhibitions, solidifying her commitment to exploring acrylic pouring as her primary medium.
Sarah Soh: Breathing Life into Animals and Mythical Creatures
Soh’s artistic style is as distinctive as it is evocative. She specializes in fluid figurative art, pouring paints to create images that capture the essence of her subjects. Her work primarily focuses on animals and birds, aiming to reveal the spirit and vitality of these living beings. The process involves meticulously guiding the flow of paint to mimic the curves and contours of her subjects, resulting in creations that are both abstract and deeply recognizable. Her paintings strive to encapsulate the soul of her subjects, bridging the gap between physical form and the intangible energy of life.
One of her most meaningful pieces is her Phoenix pour painting. This work exemplifies her ability to combine technical precision with emotional depth. The phoenix, a mythical bird associated with fire and rebirth, is depicted through vibrant, fiery hues achieved via the acrylic pour technique. While the result appears deceptively simple, Soh explains that it required extensive planning to achieve the desired balance of color and form. The painting captures the fiery spirit of the mythical creature, embodying both simplicity and complexity—a testament to her skill and vision.
Innovating in Chaos: Creating Art as a Mother and Artist
Soh’s creative process is a careful dance between spontaneity and preparation. As a mother, she has learned to adapt her artistic practice to suit her environment, finding focus even amidst potential distractions. Her process begins long before the paint meets the canvas; she meticulously sketches her ideas, selects her color palette, and plans every detail of her pour. This deliberate approach ensures that each piece reflects her vision while leaving room for the organic, unpredictable qualities of fluid art.
Despite the challenges of balancing her responsibilities, Soh finds joy and focus in her work. Music plays an integral role in her creative routine, helping her channel her energy and maintain concentration. This blend of structure and improvisation mirrors the nature of her medium, which requires both control and the willingness to embrace unexpected outcomes.
Sarah Soh: Aspiring to Transform Fluid Art into Fine Art
Soh’s influences and aspirations reveal her dedication to pushing the boundaries of her chosen medium. Among her inspirations is Rinske Douna, a pioneer of the “Dutch pour” technique, which involves using a hairdryer to manipulate paint flows. While Douna’s work remains abstract, Soh has taken this foundational method and developed her own style, adapting it to create figurative compositions that resonate with viewers on a deeper level.
Her ambition extends far beyond her current achievements. Soh dreams of hosting a solo exhibition in prestigious venues such as the Saatchi Gallery or Tate Modern. This vision reflects her determination to elevate fluid art, often dismissed as a trend, into the realm of fine art. By continually experimenting with new methods and pushing the capabilities of her medium, Soh aims to challenge perceptions and cement her place as a trailblazer in the contemporary art scene.
