It feels like just yesterday when I started collecting Tony’s creations, when in fact it’s now been a decade – how time flies when you’re having fun! My connection to the language of Tony’s art was instant. He works with batik taking centre stage, bringing back very fond and happy memories of my childhood. I still remember my grandmother and my mother weaving batik sarongs daily. I was always fascinated with the intricate flower motifs, the vibrant and contrasting colours and patterns and the way the cloth flowed with movement. Tony’s art evokes precisely the same fascination in me and I am sure that this fabric of nostalgia which clutches Tony’s paintings similarly appeals to other Malaysian art collectors.

I still remember the day I met him for the first time. I had just bought some of his paintings and I was in the process of framing them. To my surprise, he was in the frame shop on the same day. I went to collect the paintings. I was so excited to meet this young artist, who spoke without pretence about his artistic journey, his hopes and dreams. Apart from his obvious talent, what came through was his humility, thirst for knowledge and integrity. I was truly inspired, and instantly knew that I wanted to follow his career as an artist.

As the trajectory of his artistic journey evolved, so did my understanding of his creative process and aspirations. His determination to bring life to the delicate beauty of the cloth through folds, curls and ripples, was clearly expressed in each and every one of the pieces I collected. He also started to explore the interaction between batik and other elements like animals, foliage, wood and fruits culminating in paintings which exuded a sense of tranquility, serenity and happiness.

One of my favourite Tony Ng paintings is “The Love Package” where he creates a three-dimensional heart using the folds and knots of a single batik cloth against a contrasting black background. The painting caught my eye when I saw it for the first time and I acquired it in a heartbeat. The volume and depth of the “love package” with its vibrant colours are outstanding and I connect deeply with this piece.

Another favourite of mine is a more recent creation titled “Love me Knot”. It is a clever play between his magical batik, a daisy and raw linen.

Over the years, my relationship with Tony has transitioned from one between collector and artist, to one where we meet to reflect about culture and the pivotal role of art in ensuring that some of our ancient traditions are highlighted and preserved for future generations. At times, these simple conversations spark Tony’s imagination and provide the catalyst for more stunning works.

I am very proud of Tony’s evolution, and of his latest series – Ukiran. I am also very excited for what the future holds for him as an artist and I look forward to witnessing the next chapter of his journey in the years and decades to come.