Anton Poon’s sculptures explore the concept of cultural transition through the metaphors of bridges, tunnels and the use of abstract modular forms. Poon developed this theme based on his journey and experience of leaving home as a young teen in Hong Kong to study in a foreign culture in Australia. Poon sees his sculptures as gateways that allows him to share and communicate his ideas physically and visually among other aritst and the general public. Poon continues to question his identity and sense of belonging by sharing his sculptures as an international artist.
The connection with materials, bronze and steel, is an important part of Poon’s Sculptural practice. The materiality of bronze in the traditional customs practice by his grandparents act as a counterpoint to his experience with other materials as he transition to Australia. Steel has become a material that he associates with Australia; It represents the experience of gaining a sense of belonging and identity through a material based understanding whilst at The School of Art & Design. Through combining the experience of studying and practicing in the making of Sculpture through material Cor-Ten Steel and incorporating it with bronze of his tradition background; Poon is establishing a connection between the cultures and between the contemporary and tradition self.
