In Singapore, momentarily on hold to control the spread of the virus. However, the community feels more connected than ever before with everyone looking out for each other. Everyone is doing their part like volunteer groups are hosting health check-ups, food donation drives, distribution of free masks, people teaching new skills through streaming classes.

The lockdown has been a very different experience in terms of art practice. The creative response to the coronavirus crisis has been extraordinary. Artists are creating artworks more than ever before for various reasons like to thank the front-line heroes, to illustrate the pandemic scenario just the way they see it and add some more colours and beauty to this world. Staying in and getting lost in making art is pure bliss. The government is continuously encouraging the residents to keep relearning, reskilling, engaging and growing at any age. While it gave time for reflection and exploration, it also brought about restlessness and anxiety. I particularly enjoyed a lot of shows online and artist interactions on Zoom. But it also takes away the pleasure of interacting and engaging with the artwork and the artists, which is the main purpose of an art show. I would like to extend my deepest thanks to Living with Art gallery for providing us with an opportunity to showcase our artwork in these challenging times. It gives the feel of the painting, can see the exact size of the artwork and can actually smell the paints (In my case you can actually smell the coffee!) So come over to support our local artists, enjoy the fabulous exhibition and interact with artists over a cup of coffee.

What I admire the most is how this difficult time shines light on the good in people. At the end of the day, we are all small pieces of a puzzle set trying our best to paint the big picture. As an artist, people are my favourite subject and fascination. “Majulah Singapura” is painted using coffee as a medium, inspired by a proud Singaporean elderly lady, who epitomizes the spirit of a true Singaporean. This artwork conveys deeper emotions that we share as one big family, shared values like multiracialism, meritocracy, respect for every talent, shared loyalty, shared responsibility for each other and pride in what we have been doing together. And for all of us who call Singapore home - whether we were born here, taken up citizenship in recent years, a permanent resident or fairly new to the country - this Singapore spirit is what makes the country special. Happy birthday, Singapore! 

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