Artist
Statement

My work revolves around the concept of the Grotesque Sublime, which are two different elements: The Sublime looks into divine and heavenly imagery that evokes transcendental out-of-body experiences, The Grotesque involves disturbing and horrific imagery that aims to unsettle the viewer.

These two realms heavily contrast each other but at the same time are closely connected. The paradoxical connection of harmony and annihilation. A butterfly is one of the most beautiful creatures in the world. From its shape and colour; it gives off sublime features. However, it has to deform and secrete itself as a caterpillar to achieve this state: mutating in its own product and shell as a cocoon. In retrospect, life can be sublime but you are literally birthed through pain and screaming.

I inject and study the subjects, individually and linked, into themes of space, religion, nature, folklore and horror. From the depths of the abyss to the unknown galaxies, you find the grotesque in the sublime and the sublime in the grotesque.

The Grotesque and the Sublime know of no limits, they don’t reside in rules and borders. They are natural and unnatural. They destroy the illusion of boundaries to create new worlds and inspire connection.

I am toeing the line between physical and digital. Working alongside 3D modelling and printing to textiles, sculpting, casting, publications, wood and metal fabrication and painting, playing with transcendence and immanence.

I am peaceful desecration. I am Tomita playing heavy death metal. I am the quartz eye inside the hurricane.

-Ben Tong (2023)

CV

︎ benjamin.tong@btinternet.com
︎ @yungmichaelcera

Previous Clients:
Mori Velle
NAFF Magazine

Education:
Central Saint Martins (UAL) - London 
BA Graphic Communication Design

Northbrook College (GBMC) - Durrington 
UAL Foundation Art and Design