Everyday Strength
2023
111 Lor 1 Toa Payoh, Singapore
Installation
Community Art, Collage, Painting, Workshop
'Everyday Strength' began with the identification of an under-utilized 'circle' in Toa Payoh, a heartland of Singapore. Originally built for bird-lovers to hang their cages, the structures now stand unused, as bird-keeping is no longer a popular pastime in the community. The lack of shelter in the 'circle' from the daily blazing sun further deters people from using the space, turning it into a literal 'hotspot,' which has now become its name. How can we redeem this space and make it into a place?
Believing in the power of collaboration, we embarked on a journey to uncover and harness the 'superpowers' of the community.
Everyday Strength, 2023. Co-creation workshop.
A call was sent out to the neighbourhood, inviting participation in a series of portrait-making workshops. These portraits were created using everyday household items, allowing participants to see themselves, their neighbours, and the community in new light.
Everyday Strength Portraits, 2023.
Everyday Strength, 2023. Community art. 111 Lor 1 Toa Payoh, Singapore.
Another call went out to enliven the 'circle' through painting. Drawing inspiration from the existing architectural motifs of the space, participants were led to use creative color combinations to create different patterns. Many fearless and diligent residents of the neighbourhood stepped forward to add their personal touch to the 'circle,' braving the heat to make the 'sun' shine from the ground!
Everyday Strength, 2023. Community art. 111 Lor 1 Toa Payoh, Singapore.
I invite you to visit this 'Hotspot' and enjoy the fruits of our labor! As you stroll along the contours of the sun, you'll discover an array of fascinating and influential characters from the neighbourhood, whose presence illuminate the community in countless ways.
Everyday Strength, 2023. Community art. 111 Lor 1 Toa Payoh, Singapore.
Artworks were created in partnership with Participate-In-Design, Toa Payoh North Zone 2 Residents’ Committee, workshop participants, and the residents of Toa Payoh. Hotspot is a public space, free for all to visit. Booking for activities is available through the Toa Payoh North Zone 2 Residents’ Committee.