Concerning the gradual decline of traditional culture after a once glorious period, the series “After a Splendid Moment” draws attention to the final glimmer of light to the once respected and celebrated Chinese lanterns. Symbolic and significant to the Chinese culture, the bright and vivid imagery of the lanterns are essentially projections of good fortune, health, and other blessings for the future. Brought to our country during the time of the Tang Dynasty, the art of traditional lanterns was once a widely cherished and respected practice within the Chinese and Peranakan communities. From the elaborate designs and shapes of lanterns that have graced the homes and temples of the Chinese people, it is unfortunate that the art of traditional lantern making is a dying craft in Malaysia.

According to a research conducted, it was discovered that there were only two traditional lantern workshops left in our country at that time. However, the Penang lantern master had sadly passed away in 2014, while the other who resides in Malacca is over 80 years; neither of them had an apprentice to pass on their skill and knowledge of the intricate craft of lantern making. It is my belief that the lack of understanding, patience, and appreciation nurtured towards the art of traditional lanterns has been a contributing factor to the practice's gradual decline. Thus, I hope to cultivate and highlight the beauty of this lost craft, as well as of the Chinese culture as a whole through this body of work. With close up perspectives of the lantern, I included imagery which highlights aspects and themes of the Chinese culture. To represent the passing of time, I have chosen to complement the composition of each painting with irregular peels of paint which were originally inspired by an aged wall from a street in town. 

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