Kayleigh Goh

(b. 1993, Johor Bahru, Malaysia)

Currently based in Melbourne, Kayleigh Goh is amongst the most reflective and innovative young artists in the region. Inspired by the psychological and poetic implications of place, her works are soft and quiet, gently moving the viewer to contemplate ideas of home and rest. In the fast-paced life of the city, she allows us access to a metaphysical space where we can safely unpack unresolved emotions of despair. Her works then offer a temporary escape from the complexities and incongruities in life.

Using predominantly cement and wood, Goh utilises highly sophisticated methods to create a sense of serenity. In modern times, society usually associates cement with coldness and Brutalism. The genius of Goh’s work then lies in how she uses the material to create a paradoxical sense of calm. She explains that her combination of exposed wood and cement connects to her appreciation of hot tea on a cold day. In the context of ‘too much’ (too many things to do, too much food to eat, too many thoughts), Goh strives for balance. The warmth of the wood and the coldness of the concrete work together to achieve a dissonant, yet comfortable sense of harmony.

Furthermore, the young artist views cement as a homely material. To her, the concrete jungle has become so infused in our lives that its negative reputation no longer holds relevance. The hard lines present in her work similarly challenge the general impression that geometric designs hold no emotion. The 90-degree angles in urban design, the flat color of our walls, and the abundance of cement have all become elements of familiarity to the city-goer. Her works thus protest against long-held notions and instead, embrace the city as her space for healing.