City of Others: Paris Through the Eyes-and Genius-of Asia

National Gallery Singapore’s landmark exhibition, "City of Others: Asian Artists in Paris, 1920s–1940s," is captivating audiences with its revelatory narrative on how Asian artists profoundly shaped the modernist legacy of Paris. Running through August 17, the show features over 220 artworks and 200 archival materials, drawing from collections across Asia and Europe to spotlight the overlooked yet influential contributions of artists from Vietnam, China, Japan, Korea, and India.

 

Far from being mere students or outsiders, these Asian artists became integral to the Parisian art scene, actively challenging and redefining modernism during a vibrant but turbulent era. The exhibition explores themes of identity, belonging, cultural exchange, and resilience, tracing how these artists navigated the complexities of interwar Paris, colonial dynamics, and global migration. Self-portraits by figures like Georgette Chen and Tsuguharu Foujita open the exhibition, offering intimate glimpses into their self-perceptions and creative hybridity.

 

Curated in seven immersive sections, "City of Others" not only remaps the art history of Paris but also reframes global modernism through a distinctly Asian lens. The exhibition closes with reflections on World War II and decolonisation, underscoring the enduring legacy of these pioneering artists in shaping both European and Asian modern art narratives.

 

Source: The Korea Herald