Artist Richie Tan stands in the middle of the venue, a lit cigar between his fingers. He takes a puff, then moves it across his canvas, creating lines and patterns.

The crowd watches as, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, an abstract painting starts to form. Art is being created before their very eyes.

This is all part of “Art of Smoke”, a unique painting show envisioned by Tan. Combining elements of creativity and live showmanship, this inventive display sees Tan using cigars to create visually striking masterpieces.

“Ultimately, my show is not about smoking – it is about the power of reinvention: how even the most unexpected everyday items around you can be transformed into art,” he told FMT Lifestyle.

Tan is no stranger to working with unusual mediums: his previous projects have involved him making art from durian shells and mooncakes.

Here, he utilises cigar ash, tobacco, and acrylic paints to create, ending with a flourish by attaching cigars to the middle of his canvas.

The 24-year-old is fascinated by abstract paintings owing to their depth and richness of meaning. In his younger days, he was struck by how some people could gaze at them for hours, immersing themselves in an ocean of possibilities.

With him creating on the spot, how does he determine his creative outcomes? Tan has no idea – all he can do is follow his muse. The next time he attempts something like this, he believes the end result will be totally different.

To him, watching the art being created is just as important as its outcome, and the live element simply adds to the “magic” of the show.

“While painting, I was in my own world, even though I was surrounded by a full house of guests. I was nervous before I started, but once I looked at the canvas, it was like entering my comfort zone.”

After all, to Tan, art is therapy. “It was as if it was telling me what to do, and I was simply following instructions. I left the world behind and just painted.”

Deep down, he believes his art is inspired by his experiences – even the darker chapters of his life.

“I don’t paint just to paint. I paint to express my feelings, my soul and my hard work; to make my viewers feel they are connected to the paintings, and what they have been through with their own experiences,” Tan said.

The Negeri Sembilan-born believes in pushing boundaries and redefining conventional definitions of art. Indeed, he has a burning passion to become the Jackson Pollock of Malaysia.

So, what’s next? Tan isn’t sure yet. Whatever he does, though, you can guarantee it will be a highly unique work that stands out from the crowd.

“Art of Smoke” was sponsored by Cigar Lounge, Boutique Fine Wines & Spirits, Cigar Secret, Titan Group Entertainment, and Dekairos.

Selected paintings by Tan are available for sale. For more information, visit his website, or email him at [email protected].