Hearts on Fire is an art collaboration between Club Rainbow (Singapore) and the Asian Civilisations Museum. This is our second project with ACM and this partnership allowed the museum staff and Rainbow beneficiaries to work with local artists and museum objects.
During the June 2013 school holidays, 12 young artists aged 7-17 participated in an 8-hour workshop which provided them the invaluable educational opportunity of examining the finer details of some of the objects displayed in the Museum’s galleries, and thereafter to learn how to narrate their own stories through the expression of creative arts. Every single day, the Rainbow children face more physical and emotional challenges than other children their age. Art provides an avenue for them to express their hopes and unique perspectives on life.
Their creations were inspired by their experience with objects from the museum collection. Through stories, games and discussions, these young artists got to know the objects. They took on various art challenges that were presented to them with skill and gusto. The exhibition which was on display from 27 September 2013 to 5 January 2014 at ACM showcased, not just their artwork, but also the process of learning how to be an artist, how to express oneself creatively in different media.
““Our selected group of children and youths have truly experienced hearts on fire – the development of a fiery passion for creative arts through this unique educational workshop which Asian Civilisations Museum has generously sponsored. In essence, this is expression arts therapy. The process of drawing, painting and sculpting allows the Rainbow children and youths valuable reflection on some of the aspects of their life and challenges. Such reflections have often proven beneficial and relieving. By articulating the meaning of their own expressions, it enables this activity to be inherently rewarding and healing.”
The Asian Civilisations Museum is dedicated to exploring the rich artistic heritage of Asia, especially Singapore’s ancestral cultures. Through a collection of works of art and a varied exhibition programme, we hope to deepen understanding of Southeast Asia, China, South Asia, West Asia, and the Peranakan world. Rare among museums in Asia, the ACM connects audiences with many cultures.
