Collected Objects and the Essence thereof.
​(2023-2024)

"Collected Objects and the Essence Thereof" encapsulates a captivating artwork series by Singaporean artist William Goh, delving into the intricate realms of spatial dynamics, collective memory, and object-oriented theory. Through meticulous inquiry, Goh navigates the complex interplay between sustainability imperatives and the processes of urban redevelopment within the context of Singapore's evolving landscape. At the heart of this series lies Goh's deliberate engagement with materials salvaged from sites undergoing demolition. Each artwork within the series is infused with historical consciousness and spatial narrative as Goh repurposes these objects through a rigorous method of sanding onto sandpaper. This transformative process not only aesthetically preserves the essence of the original space but also metaphorically underscores the tension between preservation and progress.
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Central to Goh's aesthetic philosophy is a profound interrogation of temporalities and the phenomenology of space. Each piece in the series incorporates fragments of the past, inviting contemplation on the significance of heritage preservation amidst urban development's relentless advance. These artworks serve as liminal markers, bridging the chasm between the ephemeral nature of human constructs and the enduring materiality of the environment.

"Collected Objects and the Essence Thereof" beckons viewers into a nuanced exploration of objects, spaces, and memories. Goh's artistic interventions provoke critical discourses on the socio-political dimensions of sustainability and the ethical imperatives of redevelopment practices. Through layers of historical resonance, the series prompts viewers to confront the dialectical relationship between cultural heritage, sustainable urbanism, and the mutable nature of spatial narratives in contemporary Singapore. This series is widely collected by private collectors from both the local and international market, United Overseas Bank and consists award winning works for UOB POY 2023.