Incarceration is not a nice word. It conjures up negative images of drugs, crime, violence, and prison. Do we ever wonder how the inmates feel about their situation? The Yellow Ribbon Community Art Exhibition gives us a glimpse into their world. This exhibition of contemporary artworks by the inmates and ex-offenders tells us their hopes and aspirations; that even the faintest glimmer of hope can triumph over the darkest night and transcend into light for tomorrow.
2016 will be the 7th year of collaboration between the Singapore Art Museum ( SAM ) and the Yellow Ribbon Community Art Exhibition ( YRCAE ). The male inmates were mentored by artists Kim Whye Kee and Barry Yeow, both ex-inmates; while the female inmates were guided by Stellah Lim, who is an arts educator and artist. ” SAM’s involvement in YRAE is a humbling affirmation of why many of us joined the arts profession in the first place: to witness and enable art’s ability to touch – and transform lives.” – Ms Joyce Toh, Curator, SAM.
There was a hushed and almost reverent atmosphere in the galleries which housed the exhibits. I looked at each individual work, and peered at the description of artist and art, trying to picture a human face behind it. It is a reflection of their angst, their regrets, their sadness. It is also a mirror of their hopes, their resolve and their expectant future.
This is an exhibition unlike those usually featured in a museum. The feelings are raw, the strokes intense, and the voices crying out are resounding in their very silence. I feel almost like a voyeur, taking a peek into someone’s very private space, and am reminded that in the sea of humanity. we are all not so unlike after all.
The Fisherman’s Friend – A collaborative effort by inmates at the Visual Arts Hub. This is a story about a young boy who imagines a world wider than the breadth of the fishing net. It highlights the strengthf of the participants in such an ambitious project.
Lobster Trap, kerosene lamp, water canister and a garoupa – other features of The Fisherman’s Friend
Boat Oats and scores of encouraging notes from the public
Whole Again by Barry Yeow – The glowing circle represents leaving one’s dark past behind and also the need for a renewed focus and direction. It is also a symbol for unity and completion, and emphasises the inmates’ longing for reuniting with their family and society
Flight of Liberty by Ibrahim – A hope of ultimately embarking on that personal flight of liberty upon his release
Getting Back in Life by Raup
On New Heights by Ibrahim – A Batik Painting of hope, renewal and transformation
Pillar of Strength by Heng Lian – Sustained by strong family support and affirmation
In Memory Of by Hamid – the artist as a young babe, cradled in the loving arms of his parents.
Listen Up by Hoong – A fervent declaration of the need to listen and heed good advice in order to realise self change
The Resolute Voyager by Razid – A view of life as a journey comprising dark days and brighter ones. Learning from past mistakes, the artist is moving on and taking charge of his life with renewed wisdom
Forgiveness by Hoong – ” A Window Into My Soul” depicting the artist on bended knees seeking forgiveness from his loved ones for the hurt and sadness he has caused them
Facing True Colours by Ami – A picture of perseverance and rising above obstacles
Cinderella Dreaming by Yazril – the artist is counting down to the day of his release to take his daughter to Universal Studio as his Princess
Making the Right Moves by Sazali – The artist reflects on his life: the Bishop represents his period of incarceration and rehabilitative process; the Castle as his home and family; and the Knight as the community he hopes will be supportive of his decisions to lead a better life
The Struggle Within by Farhan – breaking free from the shackles of past failings
Setting Me Free by Fadzil – The artist explores a new technique in Chinese Ink painting and found the process highly liberating
Love Encompasses All by Isham – as the red tumultous clouds part to reveal the welcoming blue skies and calm seas beyond, the artist looks forward to a renewed life ahead
Passages Beyond by Hameed – Windows of Opportunity open to him
Can You See the Light by Ridhuan – Two young boys are looking beyond a hole in a wall. While the wall limits, possibilities extent beyond it with a change in perspective in life
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