Artist Bio: Andre D’Rozario’s (@ayforandre) journey with art started with holiday “art camps” at his Oma’s and a steady stream of cartoons growing up. Over the years, his sources of inspiration have grown to include graphic novels, more forms of animated media and old photographs. He recently began working on a comic with his friends about the local Eurasian Community (@ki.sorti). The first issue of the comic was completed in early 2020.

Artist statement: The pandemic offered a chance for everyone to slow down, and I’ve observed more of my friends exploring the natural side of Singapore. In the last few years, I’ve found myself trying to pay attention to the different birds in my neighbourhood. My hope for Singapore and Singaporeans is to develop a greater appreciation for the little natural spaces we have, and to increase our collective respect and protection for the other residents of the island that were here before and alongside us. For my artwork, I've chosen to cast a spotlight on the Asian koel, with its bright red eyes and signature calls—the bird that you either love or hate to hear in the early mornings. While many (including myself) have never seen it in person before, it’s a bird I strongly associate with our local soundscape.

Artist Bio: A self-taught artist, Hakim Deshah's (@nurhakimdeshah) passion for art has never waned since he was a child. He is fascinated by the modest mediums of pen on paper and the endless possibilities they can produce. Inspired by Zen art, his artistic process is meditative and organic. He has found a unique way of expressing himself and his emotions through his drawings. Often beginning with a single stroke, his illustrations grow into something much larger as he builds upon this first stroke without having an idea of the artwork’s final image.

Artist statement: The concept of unity was my inspiration for this piece. I hope that my drawing will spread a positive message to all who see it.

Artist Bio: Born deaf and with a passion for art, Mimi Ng (@deaf_artscraftsy) finds unparalleled joy in books, pottery, arts and crafts. She stepped out of her comfort zone and founded the deaf-led enterprise Deaf ArtsCraftsy, which aims to advocate for Deaf artists and provide sustainable income for its network of craftsmen. Through her own practice, Ng hopes to put smiles on people’s faces with her artworks.

Artist statement: I love seeing art murals on the walls of heartland flats. They reflect the uniqueness of each neighbourhood, with distinct imprints of their own identity, and allow locals and foreigners alike to get a glimpse of Singapore. They are also examples of communities, including those with special needs, coming together to create and enjoy what art mean to them. Art plays a very important part in our lives because we all use it to express ourselves.

Artist Bio: Shekinah Velmurugan (@shekinahillustration) iis a Singaporean illustrator who specialises in children’s illustrations. Her childhood experiences of going through bullying and depression shaped her desire to create meaningful illustrations and stories that would encourage children and give them hope and joy amidst the struggles they might face in life.

Artwork Title: Our Little Supertrees

Artist statement: My hope is for our nation to cherish our little ones and pave the way for them to follow their dreams and pursue their passions. By showering our children with love, support and encouragement, and guiding them attentively through any mistakes or failures, in time we will see an empowered generation who have been nurtured to grow tall and strong like Supertrees and to shine brightly as the future of Singapore!