Next month’s George Town Festival — now in its seventh year — is a wonderful way for some Singaporean artists to get in touch with their heritage: the fact that their parents are from Malaysia. Some of the creative minds who will be taking part in the art event expressed surprise that, given the history between Singapore and Malaysia, including the fact that the two nations used to be one country, they are not any closer. The George Town Festival is at least one exception to that fact, bring a collaboration of art, food, theater, and much more to the table. There are several exchanges of ideas going on, including the notion of Singaporeans finding their roots. On the Malaysian side of the festival, organizers are learning from the Singaporean way of conducting such art events, making a meaningful partnership between the two entities.
The Singaporean headliners of the show are a husband and wife duo presenting a theater production. What’s notable about the production is the spirit of collaboration within everything. The husband and wife, though living in Singapore, both have family history in Malaysia. Additionally, all of the actors performing in the play are from Malaysia. It’s this spirit that helps bring a special atmosphere to the George Town Festival. One participant commented on the fact that it’s this art event that really hammers home the idea that residents of all Southeastern Asian countries should work to develop closer relationships with their neighbors. The region is what should bind people together, not necessarily the countries themselves. It’s easy to isolate oneself, especially given the history in the region. But the more beautiful realization is the fact that Southeastern Asia is a uniquely wonderful region deserving of recognition and unification.
Another special exhibit that will be on display at the George Town Festival will be a former Singaporean newspaper photographer who now lives in China. This photographer also has links to Malaysia — her father was originally from there. She is taking this opportunity of participation in the George Town Festival to research her family history, as well as learn about the growth in the town she used to visit as a child. She said she is thrilled to see that it has undergone a renaissance of sorts, adding jazz, art, and culture since she has last visited.
Exploring one’s roots is a great reason to look into taking an art class. SGArtClass.com is one of the best resources on the internet to find a listing of many different art classes available to you. Sign up for a class in artistic photography, portrait painting, oil pastel drawing, and much more. Teachers will be able to instruct you in your chosen artistic genre whether you’re an experienced artist looking to develop your skill set or a beginner taking lessons just out of curiosity. Visit SGArtClass.com today to find out more.
To read more about the event, go to http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/arts-entertainment/when-the-arts-build-bridges.