We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of NSW stands.

Graham Kuo Wait in silence no 1

oil and acrylic on canvas

168 x 168 cm

In this series, calligraphic brush marks are suspended within an ambiguous space and contrast with areas of chromatic brilliance and a contemplative ground. It is as if the Buddhist idea of infinity – an expression of harmony, tranquillity and totality – is brought together with the more literal and externalised world of Western art. Space/silence is a critical quality in this work as it creates different levels of perception. The method of working is at once intuitive and instinctive, but also conscious of the history of two vastly contrasting cultures and traditions – the heritage of my birth and that of my adopted country.

- Graham Kuo, 2016