Singapore and China are using art to showcase effective diplomacy and reflect close friendship as a part of regional relations between China and other nations in Southeastern Asia. As Singapore is the nation in charge of these relations among others in the region, it used its growing artistic prowess to spearhead the exchange, which was held in the capital of Laos.
A Chinese artist made a large print of sights and experiences common for any familiar with Singapore. On a visit to the country, the Chinese artist remarked about how impressed he was with the notion and push for sustainability, understanding how important it was to hold that concept dear. This earth is the only planet human beings have a chance to live on so far, so it is essential for more people and places to be motivated to help the environment through recycling, ride sharing, and other sustainable practices. The Chinese artist saw Singapore’s push for these things, along with a much-needed balance to continue developing and growing as a nation. The print contains statues and art works found around Singapore, including historical figures and Singapore’s legendary Merlion, as well as significant architectural feats the world always thinks of when considering the Singaporean skyline. The entire print is rendered with dark brown ink over a manila to sepia colored background, and speaks to the artist’s professional skills with minute details such as foliage.
Singapore went with a somewhat different approach for their artist. Emphasizing the importance of art education and the new push in Singapore for increased creative efforts, officials in Singapore selected a Singaporean art student’s work to gift to the Chinese premier. The 16-year-old student’s work features friendship bracelets that connect nations in the Southeastern Asian region and China. Two hands are clasped together, the wrists bedecked in flag motifs, and a rainbow band curls among all of them. In the background, a number of dark silhouettes reflect numerous cities that benefit from the power of close ties and effective diplomacy, and birds rise in the sky above them. Though the artist is only still a student, she knew exactly what theme she wanted to convey, citing the necessity for two people in order to secure a friendship band. With Singapore at the forefront of relationships between the nations in Southeast Asia and China, they are sure to use art to help maintain a wonderful friendship in the area.
Art can help bridge gaps between both people and countries. You might be surprised what art can do for you in your own personal life if you sign up for art classes via SGArtClass.com. SGArtClass.com is a wonderful website that compiles many different art classes, connecting potential students with teachers. It doesn’t matter if you’re an accomplished artist looking to try out new genres, a student looking for feedback for your work, or someone who is completely new to art.
To read about the diplomatic exchange of art, go to http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/singapore-china-exchange-art-at-bilateral-meeting.