TAIWANESE artist Charwei Tsai will hold her first solo exhibition in Malaysia, titled Tofu, Incense, and Sky, at Blank Canvas art space at Argus Lane, George Town, from July 5 to Aug 31.
The exhibition will showcase three of Tsai’s well-known video works where she writes the Heart Sutra, a famous scripture, onto everyday objects such as tofu, incense, and a mirror reflecting the sky.
These videos explore the concept of impermanence, illustrating how everything in life is constantly changing from time to time.
The three artworks, namely Tofu Mantra (2005), Sky Mantra (2009), and Incense Mantra (2011), depict Tsai writing the full Heart Sutra on soft tofu, a burning stick of incense, and a mirror placed under the sky.
As time passes, it serves as a reminder that nothing in life is permanent.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to view Lovely Daze, an art journal Tsai has been publishing since 2005.
Tsai said the Heart Sutra has been a big part of her life since she was a child in Taiwan.
“Although my family wasn’t religious, I memorised the 260-character text and would recite it to calm myself whenever I felt afraid. Over the years, the meaning of the sutra has continued to guide me through different life experiences.
“Penang reminds me of my childhood in Taiwan, especially the vegetarian meals during festivals and temple processions. These memories are deeply meaningful to me and are reflected in my art,” Tsai said.
A special live conversation between Tsai and Malaysian artist Ain, moderated by KY Leong, the founder of Blank Canvas, will take place on Aug 23.
Tsai will also perform a live piece called Edible Mantra, continuing her exploration of using everyday materials in spiritual art.
Leong, who is also curating the exhibition, said the showcase invites viewers to slow down and reflect, offering a tranquil space for contemplation.
Blank Canvas is open to visitors from Fridays to Sundays (between July 5 and Aug 31) from noon to 7pm.
For more information, visit https://blankcanvas.my or contact 016-246 6814 (WhatsApp).
Story by Edmund Lee