According to artist and sculptor Marzo To, his art journey began in kindergarten, when he was but a three-year old, drawing shoulder-to-shoulder with his classmates. But, by 1991, things had changed. He had made a quantum leap —from crayon doodles to graduating from the esteemed École des Beaux Arts in Paris, where he had immersed himself deep in the tradition of French Impressionism.

“It was an incredible opportunity to be surrounded by luminous alumni such as Matisse, Monet, Degas; and Bui Xuan Phai, Zao Wou-ki, Chu Teh-Chun and Wu Guanzhong,” To says sounding star struck.

Thirty years on, To is a self-confessed “Contemporary expressionist artist”, who aims to create paintings and sculptures that resonate with others and capture the essence of our shared experiences.

Working out of a less expensive studio in Shenzhen, To shares that he creates, from a, “deep, inner space filled with distinct images, symbols, pop art icons and parables”, and that he explores themes of melancholia, ecstasy and despondence, drawn from both real and imagined experiences.”

For him, the passing of the years has done nothing to slow his urge to create, which he calls strong and constant, and “driven by a desire to reconcile paradoxes and find harmony.” The artist uses unique compositions and motifs that combine opposing emotions to express and explore these inner tensions.

One recurring theme in To’s paintings is the elephant and oracle bone as family totems. He says that the elephant represents strength, wisdom and protection, while the oracle bone connects us to ancient knowledge and divination.

“I aim to show the relationship between these two symbols, encouraging viewers to think and feel deeply. My work reflects the complexity of human experience, where the physical and spiritual coexist, prompting us to consider our own family legacies and spiritual heritage. The contrast between the elephant and oracle bone creates a dialogue between what we see and what lies beyond, inviting reflection.”

He has, he shares, gradually evolved into a painter with a unique artistic conviction, influenced not only by his experiences, which have, “greatly influenced” his artistic development, but by his surroundings in Hong Kong, and elsewhere.

“Throughout my artistic journey, I have undergone several profound transformations driven by the force of my ‘inner visions’,” he says, adding that despite the chaos and self-doubt that often accompany these transformations, his “unwavering interest” and motivation to understand the complexity of the human condition has remained constant.

“I believe in staying true to myself and remaining loyal to my inner visions. Through my artwork, I strive to delve beneath the surface and explore the depths of the human experience,” he says, adding that in the future, he will dedicate himself increasingly to a new series of sculptures that explores the idea of semiotics. To him, the key point is how semiotics plays out in his painting and sculptures.

This tactile series delves into how three-dimensional forms can convey meaning through the use of signs and symbols. “By examining the relationships between material, shape, texture and context, I aim to uncover the cultural, social and personal significance woven into each piece.”

“Through this artistic journey, I hope to invite viewers to engage with the layers of meaning that exist within the artworks, allowing them to connect deeply with their essence,” he reflects.