Known for his self-taught approach and expressive found-object assemblages, Akira’s practice embodies a distinctly naïve quality often associated with Art Brut. This research project reflects my interest in rekindling a curiosity for such practices within a local context. I first connected with Akira to gain a situated understanding of his work, which I had heard described as both illuminating and deserving of outsider art recognition. Following our initial meeting, I began visiting his doorstep regularly, and our encounters gradually developed into a collaborative project: together, we created a dog sculpture to commemorate a real dog that had recently passed away in the neighbourhood. These material traces now serve as a record of my engagement with Akira, he as the skilled maker and I as the curious observer.
Thanks to Terry Ong.
© 2022–2025
