In A Tale of Cats and Birds, three artists explore the theme of cats and birds through their distinct visual languages, each offering a reflection on the meaning these creatures hold for them, shaped by individual experiences, memories and emotions. While Christine Bay, Rachel Oon and Ye Ruo Shi each begin with the same subject, their approaches range from the observational to the symbolic, transforming familiar forms into personal visual narratives.

For some, cats and birds are cherished companions or fleeting encounters woven into everyday life. For others, they become metaphors for freedom, curiosity, love and beauty. Whether grounded in observation or shaped by imagination, each artist invites viewers to reconsider these familiar creatures through their unique perspective.

Deeply inspired by nature and human psychology, Christine Bay approaches the subject with an introspective lens and conveys her responses through her allegorical worlds. Rachel Oon draws from themes of childhood, daydreams, memories, isolation, reflection and belonging, using delicate watercolours to evoke the quiet, hazy atmosphere of a half-remembered dream. Meanwhile, Ye Ruo Shi presents her distinctive “Huadanism”, a vibrant pop-surreal series of paintings inspired by her experience as an opera actress. Her love for animals and flowers bring playful imagination and symbolism to the exhibition.

A Tale of Cats and Birds offers a glimpse into the many roles cats and birds play in our lives; as companions, neighbours, muses and enduring symbols. Through these varied interpretations, the exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the memories, emotions and quiet moments inspired by these familiar creatures.