WHAT WE KNOW

Born into artistic families in the 1920s, Walasse Ting and Sam Francis seemingly led parallel lives. In 1957, they crossed paths in New York, marking the beginning of a lifelong friendship. Just as Ting was influenced by Western thought, Francis was touched by Eastern religion. They furthermore bonded over their freedom from any particular artist group or movement. The paintings presented embody their particular friendship and connection.

WHY WE LOVE IT

With the works of both artists showcased in the same space, audiences can savour both their unique styles, as well as the similarities between their works – namely their methods of dripping and their love of colour. Their friendship is immortalised in One Cent Life (1964) – a curatorially important anthology of Ting’s poetry that was edited by Francis – a copy of which is on display as part of the exhibition.