Defending Singapore, Our Home

‘Defending Singapore, Our Home’ was presented to President Halimah Yacob as a tribute to NSmen.

Created in collaboration with SAFRA, this art piece was painted by teachers and students of ARTARY. It reflects the three services of the SAF and their contributions towards the defence of Singapore.

The art piece features famous icons of Singapore familiar all around the world. The Esplanade, affectionately known as the “durian” by Singaporeans, is represented by its eye-catching spiky twin-domes. The photogenic Merlion, a ‘must-see’ for tourists, symbolises Singapore’s humble beginnings as a fishing village, stands to witness Singapore’s journey from her time as a young nation.

President Halimah Yacob pens her personal thank you message to NSmen on the art piece. Image by MCI.

The Changi Airport Control Tower is featured proudly beside the Supertrees in Gardens by the Bay, showcasing the tall and lofty ambitions of developing and modern Singapore. The giant vertical gardens are depicted with acrylic & gel impasto, drawing reflections onto the art piece that recreates the Supertrees’ breathtaking and exhilarating light displays that take place at night.

Singapore’s globally envied HDB public housing apartments are depicted in clean and warm colours, illustrating the energy and dreams of the people. The nostalgic Dragon Playground of old Toa Payoh reminisces about the people’s growing up years, where precious and lasting memories of home were made.

The focal point of the art piece is undoubtedly the NSmen from the Army, Airforce and Navy. The Singapore flag flies boldly in the night sky, as the three servicemen stand ready, reminding us all that defending our nation is the duty of every citizen, regardless of race, language or religion. The art piece recreates the latest SAF pixelated uniforms, and the recognisable crests of the SAF’s three services.

ARTARY is proud of all students who have participated in this art piece, with honourable mentions to the following main student artists. From top left, clockwise: Akshta Pappu, Danielle Lim, Pema Lim, Inez Chua, Lin Yee Cheng, Crystal Oh, Kayley Tien & Rachel Yee