Art can be as essential to the success of a nation as its economy, infrastructure, and defense. That’s according to an essay written recently by an official in Singapore’s National Arts Council. While things like a strong economy and good infrastructure are important, it’s arts and culture that help strengthen the social fabric of society, and Singapore is no different in that regard.
The official remembered an art experience in Japan from 2013, where, with the support of the Singaporean government and an art collective, a Singaporean artist participated. Taking place in a building that used to house a school, the art did much more than attracting visitors and potential buyers. It brought people together. The Singaporean artist’s installation was made from millions of tiny plastic strings normally used to attach price tags to clothing. The artist enlisted help in constructing the sculptures from Japanese people living near the festival, including young kindergarten students and older individuals living in retiree homes. Being able to help construct such art brought the community together. Other special events scheduled as a part of the art festival included participants having the opportunity to learn how to cook food and dishes typical to Southeast Asia.
While this particular art experience took place in Japan, the author of the essay saw a chance to apply some of the lessons learned from it in Singapore. By making the art scene more interactive and immersive in Singapore, organizers can connect artists and residents seamlessly, turning what already is an educational experience into something even more valuable — an emotional experience. When artists collaborated with residents to make building-sized mural installations recently, residents remarked that not only did they enjoy participating in the artistic process, they actually felt prouder of where they lived because of the addition of the art. Art has a way of building confidence and boosting quality of life, which are intangible necessities that are required for a country’s happiness and health overall. If Singapore can continue this level of community engagement with the arts indefinitely, the culture of the nation will continue to grow, making it attractive for residents and visitors alike.
Investigate art on your own time by enrolling in an art class via SGArtClass.com. Whether you’re interested in acrylic painting or 3-D sculpture, mural painting or assemblage art, SGArtClass.com is sure to feature an art class you’ll enjoy taking. Expert teachers with experience in teaching art students of all ages and abilities will be on hand to help you work around your busy schedule to meet at your convenience. You can even enroll in online-only art classes that you can begin and pause at your leisure, maximizing the convenience of art learning. There’s no excuse to not sign up for an art class today.
To read more on the perspective of art and its influence on shaping Singapore and other countries, go to http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/the-role-of-the-arts-in-making-a-nation-home.