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Natalie Sze Wai: Bridging the Gap Between Artist and Art Critic in “The Quiet Flight”

Writer's picture: Selfless Art GallerySelfless Art Gallery

Updated: Feb 3

For the first time, Toronto-based artist Natalie Sze Wai, who has deep roots in Hong Kong and a diverse background in dance, scenic art, and painting, transcends traditional boundaries by bridging the roles of artist and art critic. In a rare and introspective analysis of her celebrated work, The Quiet Flight, Sze Wai unveils the intricate interplay of movement, emotion, and symbolism that defines the piece, guiding viewers toward a deeper appreciation of the layers within her artistry. This analysis goes beyond merely dissecting the painting—it provides art enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to engage with art from the creator’s perspective, a rarity in contemporary art. By assuming the dual role of artist and critic, she invites collectors, art lovers, and aspiring critics alike to explore the delicate balance between intention and interpretation, illuminating how meaning evolves through both creation and reflection.


“The Quiet Flight”,2024, Oil on canvas, 24”x18”inches


Exploring Composition Through Emotion by Natalie Sze Wai


The Quiet Flight feels like a moment frozen in time—still, yet full of unspoken emotion. The figure, trapped in a posture of vulnerability, almost seems to shield herself from the world. But there’s something about that vulnerability that pulls you in. You almost can’t look away because it’s so relatable—this sense of quiet, internal chaos. The soft lines of the goldfish and seaweed-like forms float through the piece, offering a kind of calm—but it’s a fragile calm, like it could break at any moment. The muted blues and grays convey a sense of heaviness, while the bright orange of the goldfish feels like a small burst of warmth in the cold—a flicker of hope amidst the emotional weight. The contrast between these elements creates a tension—something delicate that doesn’t hit you all at once but lingers, making you reflect on the balance between struggle and quiet resilience.


It’s clear that the figure is experiencing some kind of emotional burden, but there’s also a quiet strength in her posture. She’s not giving up, even if she’s withdrawn. There’s something universal about that kind of inner turmoil—something we all recognize, even if we don’t always talk about it. The piece feels like an invitation to sit with those emotions, to truly feel them. In doing so, it creates a connection with the viewer, a reminder that even in introspection, we are not alone.



In the context of contemporary art, this painting fits seamlessly into the growing conversations about mental health and personal experiences. It taps into a vulnerability that is deeply relatable while still leaving room for personal interpretation. The surreal, almost dreamlike quality gives it a timeless feel—it’s not bound to any one space or place, much like the way we navigate our own emotional worlds. It feels influenced by Surrealism, with its dreamlike quality and symbolic elements. The ambiguity of the setting—whether underwater or on land—echoes the psychological landscapes often explored by artists like Salvador Dalí. Additionally, the use of personal symbolism is reminiscent of Frida Kahlo’s introspective works.


A Contextual Overview of the Surrealist Era: Dreamscapes, Symbolism, and Psychological Depths


Top to Bottom: Salvador Dalí, The Persistence of Memory; Max Ernst, The Elephant Celebes; René Magritte, The Son of Man; Frida Kahlo, Without Hope


The Surrealist movement, which emerged in the early 20th century, revolutionized art by exploring the subconscious, dreams, and irrationality. Led by figures like Salvador Dalí and André Breton, surrealism sought to transcend reality through vivid, dreamlike landscapes and symbolic imagery. Inspired by psychoanalytic theory, artists aimed to reveal the hidden forces of the mind, depicting emotional and psychological states through distorted forms and fantastical scenes.


Personal symbolism was a key feature of surrealism, much like in Frida Kahlo’s work, which focused on themes of pain, identity, and healing. Surrealism’s influence endures in contemporary art, as it continues to challenge perception and engage with the complexity of human emotions and the subconscious. Here are a few works from artists who really embodied the surrealist movement: Salvador Dalí’s The Persistence of Memory, René Magritte’s The Son of Man, and Max Ernst’s The Elephant Celebes.

 

In conclusion, in The Quiet Flight critique, Natalie Sze Wai masterfully captures the complexity of emotion, guiding viewers through a deeply personal and reflective journey. By stepping into the role of art critic, she offers profound insights into her own creative process, making this critique as layered and thoughtful as the painting itself. Stay tuned for part two of our collaboration with Sze Wai, where we explore her artistic journey and what it was like to step into the dual roles of artist and critic.


To see more of Natalie Sze Wai's incredible work and stay updated on her latest projects, be sure to follow her on Instagram  and visit her website!


References:

1. The History of Art. “Surrealist Artists.” The History of Art 2. Frida Kahlo. “Without Hope.” Frida Kahlo: Without Hope 3. My Modern Met. “What is Surrealism? Definition and Characteristics.” What is Surrealism?


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