Known for his technical flexibility in various genres and style, Singaporean artist Aaron Gan constantly pushes boundaries when it comes to brush-strokes, watercolour, and even traditional calligraphy.

It is perhaps this dogged determination expand his horizons that has seen the artist grow in demand, with an ever evolving body of work. Naturally, over time, his style of painting has evolved with maturity.

The artist explains that there is an understanding, and a deepened sense of trust in both the brush strokes and the self – which is important in maintaining his uniqueness and relevance as an artist, in the art market.

You’ve recently completed a commercial collaboration with Nespresso. How did that feel like?

I felt extremely honoured. To me, Nespresso is a household name that has long been associated with quality and excellence.

What is so special about this collaboration?

The collaboration was for a special Chinese New Year (CNY) gift pack range in Nespresso. CNY is an important tradition for us. Those who have been abroad travel home for a family reunion. Often, they bear gifts to express their appreciation, as well as to show their family that they are doing well. The meaning behind their gift, thus, carries significant weight, which is revealed in the artwork depicting the Mandarin character for ‘gift’.

Tell us more about the artwork and the values it represents.

The characters mean that a gift’s true value is the consideration for the recipient, one of the core values of this campaign. Key themes of gifting, traditional values and Chinese New Year are weaved seamlessly into the execution of the artwork.

The artwork follows through the Mandarin characters with the strokes depicting the journey Nespresso takes to ensure each serving of coffee is perfect and the important Chinese virtue of filial piety. It also symbolises respect for age-old traditions and is representative of gratitude, a show of respect and a demonstration of care and support for one’s parents and elders.

How long did you take to complete the artwork? What was the process like?

The artwork was a result of many months of discussion and to-and-fro communication with the client. We took over 6 months from start to end to come up with the final artwork.

What role does coffee play in your life?

I always start my day with a cup of Nespresso. It preps me up and gives me the zest I need to start the day the right way.

This is another interesting project in your recent series of artworks. What can we look forward to next?

The campaign has been a runaway success. Sales are brisk during this festive period and qualitative displays provided a strong Chinese New Year atmosphere. Social media videos we have produced to tell our Chinese New Year story are also very well-received. I look forward to more opportunities to collaborate in the future.

Find out more about Aaron Gan and his work at Aarongan.com/home.html.