James Seet (b. 1970, Kuala Lumpur) is one of Malaysia’s most accomplished ceramic artists. His works extend beyond the idea of ceramics’ stereotypically ornamental function, pushing the medium into more hybrid terrain. In the past, he has even created ceramic works that can be played as musical instruments and works that can float on water, along with works that incorporate the mediums of installation and painting. His artworks often feature whimsical or fantastical elements with the purpose of telling a story, or political elements that serve to highlight a social issue. 

Issues is James’s third solo exhibition, following Wobbly Sabi at Richard Koh Fine Art, Kuala Lumpur, in 2020 and Memories at The Back Room, Kuala Lumpur, in 2019. In 2022, he was a speaker at TEDx Petaling Street and in 2021, he represented Malaysia at The Ceramic Congress by The Ceramic School. He has exhibited his works in showcases and festivals all around the world, including the Southeast Asian Ceramic Festival in the Philippines (2009), the 2nd South East Asian Ceramic Conference in Fuping, China (2012), and the Workhouse Gallery in Washington D.C., U.S (2014). He has also worked with humanitarian groups such as Women’s Aid Organisation and the Orang Seletar community to highlight social issues through art. 

James also hosts a Chinese-language podcast on Astro Radio, where he interviews local artists. In 2022, he published his artist book, Ceramic Alchemy, which narrates the story of his artistic practice from his early years until the present day.