This year's National Day celebration at Bishan Heartland aimed to foster a sense of community and artistic expression. In collaboration with the Toa Payoh East Community Club (CC), we sought to create a shared experience that would unite neighbours while showcasing the creative talents within the community.
The installation, TingArt, revolved around a collaborative cardboard artwork inspired by the traditional Singaporean "tingkat" traditional take away food container. TingArt featured a visually striking cardboard carpentry piece, adorned with papercraft orchid flowers—a symbol of Singapore's national identity. In addition, we highlighted local culinary delights such as chilli crab, laksa, and kuehs, evoking nostalgia and reinforcing a sense of national pride.
Engagement and Artistic Expression
The centrepiece of the TingArt installation was a collaborative cardboard tingkat art piece, a beloved symbol of Singaporean culture. Residents were invited to contribute to the installation by painting orchid flowers and pasting them onto the tingkat. This activity not only allowed individuals to express their artistic creativity but also fostered a sense of ownership and community.
A Blend of Art and Tradition
Beyond the main installation, the event featured various fringe activities that celebrated Singaporean culture. One such activity was paper crafting Png Kueh, where residents folded their very own version of Png Kueh, a traditional dessert. By engaging in this hands-on experience, participants could connect with their cultural heritage and learn about local traditions.
Through these various engagements, we aimed to inspire a sense of pride and belonging among residents, celebrating our local culture and artistic spirit. By coming together to contribute to this dynamic cardboard installation, everyone became part of a larger story, celebrating Singapore in a uniquely personal and creative way!