Key Concepts:
- Figurines of first-generation PAP leaders (Lee Kuan Yew, Goh Keng Swee, S. Rajaratnam)
- Balancing realism and caricature in artistic representation
- State involvement in shaping ideology and promoting the arts in Singapore
- Tension between state values and artistic expression
- Nostalgia and vintage toy aesthetics
Figurines of PAP Leaders
Sunonny Leu, a cartoonist, collaborated on an exhibition featuring figurines of first-generation PAP leaders: Lee Kuan Yew, Goh Keng Swee, and S. Rajaratnam. These figures were chosen because Lee Kuan Yew is recognized as the primary leader, Goh Keng Swee as the second best known, and S. Rajaratnam as the primary ideologue of Singapore. The project aimed to create toy versions of these ministers.
Artistic Challenges: Realism vs. Caricature
The main challenge was balancing realism and caricature. Leu emphasized the need to study numerous photographs of each leader from different angles to create sketches that the sculptor could interpret accurately. The process involved creating full turnarounds, similar to animation projects. The goal was to find an idealized, "platonic" depiction of the ministers, capturing how they are commonly remembered, avoiding extremes of age. Every feature, from the eyeballs to the head size, was carefully considered to achieve this balance.
State, Ideology, and Art in Singapore
The state in Singapore actively shapes the country's ideology. There was a period when the state recognized the importance of promoting the arts, which created a tension. This tension arose because some artists hold values and ideas that differ from those of the state. This tension was particularly evident in the 1990s with the emergence of performance art and forum theater.
Specific Examples: Lewan's Yellow Man Series
For one of the art pieces, Lewan's "Yellow Man" series was chosen. The figurine incorporates yellow color in its appearance. The jacket of the Lewan figurine features text on the back, referencing another performance art piece.
Nostalgia and Vintage Toy Aesthetics
The project aimed to evoke nostalgia by basing the design on vintage toys, particularly Star Wars figures from the 1970s onwards. The packaging and overall look of the toys were designed to create a sense of nostalgia.
Conclusion
The project explores the intersection of political figures, artistic representation, and state ideology in Singapore. By creating figurines of PAP leaders with a balance of realism and caricature, and drawing inspiration from vintage toys, the artist aims to prompt viewers to derive their own meanings and reflect on Singapore's history and cultural landscape.
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