Hannah Lim is an artist based in London. Interested in exploring how cultures intersect and how these intersections historically have been reflected through the design of objects, artworks and architecture. This interest is connected to her own mixed British and Singaporean heritage. She became interested in the 18th century design trend Chinoiserie, a trend through which aspects of Chinese designs and culture were appropriated to conform to European tastes. She attempts to re-imagine this practice in a more conscientious way, respecting the heritage of the cultural designs that are referenced.
There’s a blend of contrasting themes, materials and styles in my work. Whilst referencing historic objects, motifs and processes often produced in her works with more contemporary materials; jesmonite, vibrantly coloured polymer clay, laser cut metal and coloured plastic chains. There’s an intent to blend ornamental and functional designs, particularly in her larger scale sculptures.
Both smaller snuff bottle works and larger furniture-like sculptures have anthropomorphic or creaturely qualities, often featuring clawed feet, bowed legs, wings and curved arms. These accents reference the design styles and objects they’re inspired by but also helping to give these objects life, they become much more playful, active structures through these adornments and in turn invite people to investigate the cultural context of the work.
