Spotlight On: Tony Wong Hee, sculptor & current TBSSS student

Name: Tony Wong Hee

What years have you attended classes at TBSSS?

I have been going to classes since 2015.

What is unique about your TBSSS experience?

It's a warm, friendly place with no egos.

What was your first impression walking in to TBSSS at Erskineville?

The moment I walked through the yellow front doors I was excited by the visual impact of the place - the light, the old work benches, the well-used tools and shelves of sculptures. To me, it felt like a true artists' studio, and I wanted to learn and work there.

What is special about TBSSS?

At TBSSS, teachers take the traditional atelier approach with particular emphasis on understanding and interpreting the human form. This is essential grounding for developing personal expression.

What is your favourite medium to work in?

I like to 'build', so I work with various media and materials from clay and plaster to steel, wire and wood.

What lessons / skills / concepts have you enjoyed learning at TBSSS?

How to think in three dimensions. And be patient.

What inspires your practice today?

I am continually inspired by contemporary sculptors working with diverse mediums and materials to express their ideas.

Tell us about the works you are exhibiting as part of the 50th exhibition:

The Tower (pictured right):

Located some place in time, an abandoned, rusting tower stands sentinel. Enclosed within a cage, a crystal is set on an altar of stone. A plumb swings above. The meaning long forgotten but open for interpretation.

Thank you Tony!