Sophie-Yen Bretez: Powerful, Despite It All

In celebration of the gallery's 5th anniversary, JD Malat is thrilled to present Powerful, despite it all, a solo exhibition by French-Vietnamese artist Sophie-Yen Bretez. A champion of emerging female artists, JD Malat is proud to collaborate with WAAW World: Women Artist Art Week in promoting Bretez’s captivating show. On display at the gallery from June 8 to July 8, Powerful, despite it all invites viewers to embark on a kaleidoscopic journey reflecting on themes of memory, pain, and resilience through the lens of universal femininity. 

Thought-provoking and relatable Bretez presents a personal narrative on femininity. Inspiring hope and healing through vibrant surrealist compositions she poses questions on self-expression and the social conformities imposed on women. Expressing her own understanding of femininity in the title of her exhibition as “Powerful, despite it all” Bretez, a Vietnam-born French artist, incites an influential dialogue on universal womanhood. Referring to her own identity, history, and resilience Bretez further addresses events inflicted on many women such as violence and sexualization through symbolic and colourful paintings. Resonating with Simone Beauvoir’s notion of ‘the second sex’ in a society where male power is predominant, Bretez thoughtfully composes the portrayal of resistance and strength.