In 1999, I left behind my career as an architect to embark on a journey into art and photography. The decision was difficult, as I had studied architecture and worked in Hong Kong as a project manager for an international firm. Yet, I felt a strong inner need to create—an urge to work with my hands and bring beauty into physical form. Despite beauty being a concept that many contemporary artists avoid, it remains at the core of my work. To the artists who inspire me, I owe my deepest gratitude for fuelling my own creative journey.
Re(Constructing) Memories, No. 20. Collage by Norm Yip

Elemental Series

The Elemental Series is a body of abstract paintings rooted in the fundamental shapes of triangle, circle, and square. Each work deliberately avoids representation and narrative, instead foregrounding the aesthetics of form, structure, and the tactile qualities of paint.

Re(Constructing) Memories, No. 20. Collage by Norm Yip

Fluxe 01

My debut zine FLUXE emerged from my journey back to Canada to care for my mother who lives with mixed dementia. Through these pages, I blend my photography, gardening, writing, and collage work—creative pursuits that brought me moments of joy and self-expression during my care-giving journey. 

Re(Constructing) Memories, No. 20. Collage by Norm Yip

Elysium Series

A new painting has emerged into being after several years of disillusion or lack of focus. Struggling at the canvas, the painting sat unattended to for over a year. I had to let go of self-imposed expectations. Then without much thought, I came to the canvas one evening with the intention of simply cleaning and reorganizing my space. One thing led to another and I started to paint. I introduce to you Elysium, No. 1, the mythical land for the afterlife of noble, heroic and the blessed.

Left or Above: Elysium, No. 1, 2024

Re(Constructing) Memories, No. 20. Collage by Norm Yip

Art & Alzheimer’s

On New Year’s Day 2024, I proposed creating collages with my mom, who has Alzheimer’s. Despite her condition, she enthusiastically embraced the idea. As Alzheimer’s gradually limits her ability to perform normal cognitive tasks, this activity serves as a hopeful means of creating new neural connections. While she cuts out items from supermarket flyers, I handle the pasting. This collaboration not only brings her joy but also allows us to connect in a meaningful way. Together, we’ve created over 30 collages and still counting.