Happy Birthday To Those Who Celebrate Alone, 2020

Illustration

Streets of Hope, Orchard Rd, Gillman Barracks, Singapore

The commissioned artwork is a digital illustration featuring images of cakes visually stacked and is part of the Streets of Hope, organised by National Arts Council Singapore. The piece was created during the surge of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when many people were isolated and separated from their loved ones due to social distancing measures.

The use of cakes as the central subject matter serves to evoke a sense of celebration and joy, as cakes are often associated with birthdays and other special occasions. At the same time, the stacked composition of the cakes suggests a sense of isolation and loneliness, as the individual cakes are separated from one another.

The title of the artwork, Happy Birthday To Those Who Celebrate Alone, speaks to this idea, offering a message of solidarity and understanding to those who may feel disconnected on their special day, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The artwork invites the viewer to consider the ways in which loneliness and isolation can be present even in the midst of celebration, and to offer kindness and support to those who may be struggling. As part of the Streets of Hope project, this piece serves as a reminder of the importance of connection and support during difficult times.

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