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SPLAT! Visual Art Exhibitions HeARTbeat
Youths aged between 13 and 25 conceputalise, produce and contribute artworks which revolve around themes reflecting the concerns and challenges that youths-at-risk and ex-youth offenders face. Their contributions are curated by SPLAT!'s Visual Art Advisory Panel before touring at public venues as part of our visual art exhibition HeARTbeat.
HeARTbeat harnessess the inspirational and therapeutic nature of the visual arts to educate the public abouit the concerns and challenges which youths-at-risk and ex-youth offenders face while providing a platform for winners of the SPLAT! visual art competions between 2007 and 2009, and other youths to showcase and be visibly recognised for their artistic talents.
The artworks explore the vital roles played by families, educators, peers and the community in helping youths-at-risk and youth offenders to realise the consequences of their actions, and become more capable and resilient in overcoming life's challenges. The artworks challenge guests to find in their hearts the values binding them together over the differences separating them and invite them to build bridges across the chasms of apathy and broken dreams.
In 2008 and 2009, 49 artworks from the Singapore Boys' Home, Singapore Girls' Home and eight educational institutions have been exhibited.
What Our Guests Say
"The artworks displayed are nice and touching. The remorse, loneliness, pain and the label which youths-at-risk and ex-youth offenders are shown through the artworks. If they show that they have turned a new leaf, they will be accepted. I will accept them. I wish them all the best in their future and look forward to see them standing somewhere high too. If there is a will, there is a way. Good luck to you and them."
"Your artworks are wonderful. We are proud of your strengths and society believes in you. It's alright to make mistakes. Pick yourselves up, turn around and walk the right path. We are and will always be here for you."
"Everything is possible. Although others may look down on you, you must be strong. Ignore others' perceptions and remember that your life is full of possibilities. This is similar to how nobody would have thought that I would make it to the National University of Singapore. Have hope in love, do not give up and remember that no one can judge you."
"I truly love your artworks. Don't lose hope. There is much pressure created by institutions but these are not an indication of your character or goals. I too know what it is like to feel alone. I believe that life always gives a second chance. When you do get your chance, be sure to leave the dark pits of your past and be a new, better and brigher you. All the best!"
"Your artworks are impactful. They touch my heart and help me understand how youths-at-risk and ex-youth offenders feel and think. Life is still full of opportunities. Don't give up!"
"Great job! I am truly inspired by you all. At the same time, I am thankful that you all cherish the second chances, and do yourselves and those who love you proud. Continue to be an inspiration to many. Your exhibition helped me to understand your world better too. You are loved. Love yourself."
"To the artists who participated and especially those whose artworks are showcased here, it is a great effort and awesome visual expressions using art. I congratulate and thank the artists who created such fabulous artworks which made me raise my two thumbs and eyebrows up."