Last Saturday, we had the privilege of attending the launch of Artist’s Proof: Singapore at 60—an extraordinary exhibition and book that reimagines the nation’s journey not through speeches or textbooks, but through the evocative lens of art. The invitation came from none other than the passionate art collector behind this monumental project, Mr. Chong Huai Seng, who welcomed us to an evening of reflection, dialogue, and celebration.
The event began with an insightful panel discussion featuring Mr. Chong himself, his daughter—the exhibition’s curator—and a seasoned art correspondent from The Straits Times as moderator. Together, they unraveled the vision behind this decade-long passion project: a deeply personal tribute to Singapore’s past, present, and future, as seen through the eyes of over 50 artists across generations.
A Love Letter to Singapore, Told in Brushstrokes and Bronze
Artist’s Proof: Singapore at 60 is more than an exhibition—it’s a collector’s love letter to the nation. Walking through the gallery, we witnessed Singapore’s metamorphosis unfold—from nostalgic kampung scenes of the 1960s to bold contemporary interrogations of identity, leadership, and nationhood. Over 90 artworks trace this arc, including 11 newly commissioned pieces and a brand-new musical composition, underscoring Mr. Chong’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent.
One of the most poignant moments was encountering a long-hidden treasure: the only artist’s proof of the bronze bust of the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, the sole portrait sculpture he ever endorsed. Created in 1983, this rare piece spent decades away from public view, briefly gracing the Istana and Parliament House before entering the National Collection. In 2014, Mr. Chong acquired the proof—and now, 40 years later, it steps into the spotlight for the first time. As Singapore marks 60 years of independence and a decade since Mr. Lee’s passing, the bust’s unveiling feels like a quiet, powerful reckoning with legacy.
Art as a Mirror of the Nation’s Soul
The exhibition doesn’t shy from asking difficult questions. Between vibrant cityscapes and intimate portraits, the works probe the relationship between artists, the state, and its people—inviting us to reflect on what Singapore was, is, and could be. Mr. Chong’s collection is a testament to art’s power to capture the unspoken: the struggles of a young nation, the weight of leadership, and the restless creativity shaping its future.
For those who missed the launch, the exhibition remains a must-see. It’s more than a display; it’s an invitation to see Singapore anew—through the strokes of its artists, the vision of a collector, and the echoes of a history still being written.
Tang Da Wu
