The opening of Shaping Hearts 2024 was a spectacular event, celebrating the creativity and talents of artists with disabilities. While most featured artists hail from Singapore, this year welcomed participation from talented artists across the region, making the event even more vibrant and diverse.
A special highlight for Friends of the Disabled Society (FDS) was seeing our very own Ng Siang Hoi’s beautiful painting of Our Tampines Hub proudly displayed as the backdrop for the event’s photo booth. Ng Siang Hoi, a Singaporean artist well-known for his paintings depicting nostalgic scenes of old Singapore—including marketplaces, the Singapore River, and old buildings—brought his signature style to this piece. Often working with acrylics, Ng Siang Hoi, who is notably deaf, began painting at a young age and has spent decades capturing the essence of Singapore’s architectural heritage through his artwork. His contribution to Shaping Hearts added a deep sense of cultural nostalgia and artistic excellence to the event.
Celebrating Our Artists
We are incredibly proud of our members who had their artwork exhibited at Shaping Hearts. Congratulations to Bobby, Siang Hoi, Precilia, Kim Lai, Joyce, Shawalee, Lian Jie, and Hee Kiat for sharing their creativity and personal stories through their art. Each piece reflects their journey, resilience, and artistic expression, contributing to the rich tapestry of this inclusive exhibition.
Engaging the Community
Art is not just about admiration; it is about participation. Our dedicated volunteers played a key role in conducting a hands-on mosaic workshop, allowing participants to experience the joy of creating their own mosaic fridge magnets. This interactive session brought smiles to many and highlighted the importance of making art accessible to all.
Shaping Hearts Roving Exhibition at Suntec City
Adding to the excitement, we participated in the Shaping Hearts Roving Exhibition at Suntec City from 23rd – 29th September (10 AM – 9 PM), organized by North East Community Development Council. This exhibition offered a chance to admire breathtaking artworks by artists with disabilities and engage in experiential activities that simulate disabilities, fostering a deeper understanding of their lived experiences.
A big congratulations to Bobby, Precilia, and Lim Kim Lye! Bobby’s artwork was proudly displayed at Promenade MRT station, while Precilia and Lim Kim Lye’s stunning pieces were showcased at Suntec City. This recognition is a testament to their talent and dedication to their craft.
Honoring Artistic Excellence
We are thrilled to share that Lim Kim Lye won the Most Popular Painting award at the Neo Kah Kiat’s Art Award 2024 for her stunning piece, Sakura’s Embrace! 🌸 Her creativity and dedication continue to inspire us all. A heartfelt thank you goes out to Mdm Chow, our dedicated art teacher, whose unwavering support and mentorship have nurtured artists like Lim Kim Lye on their creative journeys.
We also extend our gratitude to North East Community Development Council for organizing Shaping Hearts SG each year, providing artists with disabilities a meaningful platform to showcase their talent and shine.
Support a Great Cause
Proceeds from the sale of these incredible paintings went towards supporting the participating Heartists and Social Service Agencies, empowering them to continue their artistic journey.
Looking Ahead
Our volunteers poured their hearts into preparing for the Shaping Hearts event, bringing enthusiasm and dedication to every mosaic tile they placed. Their efforts ensured a meaningful and enriching experience for all involved.
The success of Shaping Hearts 2024 is a testament to the power of art, inclusion, and community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to North East Community Development Council for organizing this incredible platform, where artists of all abilities can shine and share their creativity with the world.
With another inspiring edition behind us, we celebrate our artists’ achievements and the connections made through art. We look forward to Shaping Hearts 2025, where we can continue fostering a society where creativity knows no boundaries.
