CHRISTINE AY TJOE | Study of First November Doll

This work is in good overall condition as viewed. Framed.
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In Study of First November Doll, Christine Ay Tjoe reveals the visual and thematic complexity of her celebrated oeuvre. Born in 1973 in Bandung, Ay Tjoe has established herself as one of Indonesia’s leading contemporary artists. While the artist’s abstract canvases are admired for their obscure yet raw expressivity, her semi-figurative works indicate the interaction between spirituality, personal relations and cultural identification that forms the basis of her aesthetic. The current work stems from the artist’s ‘doll’ series, where she shows a monthly progression in the development of the ‘doll’ theme.  Ay Tjoe delves into the layered meanings of this singular motif over time and unpacks its various significances in her life, weaving her personal struggles and joys into the fabric of her work. By placing a ‘doll’ as the focal point of the present painting, the artist recalls ideas of play and childhood.  The vague fragments of a human figure – a rounded head, a small body and short limbs – come together and are rendered in soft white and greyish scratches. The figurine’s small frame resembles a young child bending over and completely immersed, perhaps fascinated by the toys at his or her feet.

A salient voice in an often male-dominated industry, Ay Tjoe’s diverse practice which includes painting, photography and installation remains rooted in the disciplines of printmaking.  This is evident in the virtuoso-like use of lines and subtle layering of textures in the present painting. Study of First November Doll is marked by the expressive red strokes that have become a signature and recurring element in Ay Tjoe’s work. By negotiating the large negative space, the artist also creates a contemplative aura and draws the audience’s gaze towards the center of the work. Against the taupe, muted background, the red lines are ever more striking and exciting. These outbursts of crimson juxtaposed against the dark rubbings of blackish brown imbue the work with an emotional fervency. Yet the gentle gestures and whitish palette used to fill the body of the doll offer an ephemeral, calming effect.

With every painting, Ay Tjoe reaches deep within the crevices her soul to explore the fundamental struggles of human nature and experience. Study of First November Doll is a contemplative work that marks Ay Tjoe’s artistic development at a critical juncture.  Her courage and willingness to express her thoughts with utter honesty has garnered her international acclaim. The present lot offers a captivating and poignant encounter that reveals the strength of her truly unique and powerful visual language.