Bong Thuo Yun is a budding watercolour artist in Singapore who has developed a deep passion for capturing the city’s landscapes and architectural heritage through his art. His daily routine revolves around sketching and painting, activities that not only fuel his creativity but also serve as a means to connect with his surroundings. Through his work, Bong hopes to inspire greater community involvement in the arts across Singapore.
A Passion for Watercolour and Daily Sketching
Bong’s fascination with watercolour painting began during his formative years, drawn by the medium’s fluidity and the subtle interplay of light and color it offers. He finds joy in the spontaneity and unpredictability of watercolours, which allow him to express the transient beauty of Singapore’s urban and natural landscapes.
Each day, Bong dedicates time to sketching various scenes around the city, from bustling hawker centers to serene coastal views. This daily practice not only hones his technical skills but also deepens his appreciation for the city’s evolving architectural landscape. By capturing both iconic landmarks and hidden corners, Bong’s art serves as a visual diary of Singapore’s rich cultural tapestry.
Promoting Community Engagement in the Arts
Beyond his personal artistic pursuits, Bong is committed to fostering a vibrant arts community in Singapore. He believes that art has the power to bring people together, bridge cultural divides, and enhance the quality of life. To this end, he actively seeks opportunities to engage the public in artistic endeavors.
One avenue through which Bong promotes community involvement is by participating in initiatives like the National Arts Council’s (NAC) #ArtsInYourNeighbourhood program. This initiative aims to make the arts accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds by bringing artistic activities into everyday spaces. For instance, in Telok Blangah, a papercraft exhibition titled “Better 2gather” showcased stories and memories of the local community, reflecting the area’s unique identity.
Bong also hope to collaborate with local community centers and schools to conduct workshops and art sessions. These engagements provide participants with hands-on experience in watercolour painting and sketching, encouraging them to explore their creativity. By demystifying the artistic process, Bong hopes to inspire individuals to incorporate art into their daily lives, whether as a hobby or a means of personal expression.
Art in the Heartlands
Recognizing the importance of making art accessible beyond traditional gallery spaces, Bong supports efforts to bring art into Singapore’s heartlands. Community-based art projects, such as the “Insect Inventorium” in Bukit Gombak, exemplify how art can engage residents in creative processes and transform public spaces. In this project, residents collaborated with artists and entomologists to create imaginative insect sculptures displayed throughout the neighborhood, fostering a sense of community pride and participation.
Bong envisions similar projects where residents co-create murals or installations that reflect their collective experiences and aspirations. Such initiatives not only beautify communal areas but also strengthen social bonds and encourage a shared sense of ownership and identity.
Collaborations with Institutions
To amplify his impact, Bong seeks collaborations with institutions like the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, which runs Community Engagement Programmes aimed at bringing the arts to underserved communities. These programs have reached over 14,000 beneficiaries annually, including vulnerable children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. By partnering with such organizations, Bong aims to extend the reach of his art and contribute to the well-being of diverse community groups.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Bong aspires to see a Singapore where art is an integral part of everyday life, accessible to all, and celebrated for its ability to enrich and connect communities. He hopes that through continued efforts in education, community projects, and public art initiatives, more Singaporeans will discover the joy of artistic expression and the unifying power of the arts.
In his journey as a watercolour artist, Bong Thuo Yun exemplifies how individual passion can inspire collective creativity, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant arts culture in Singapore.
