NO RIGHTS, NO WRONGS IN ART?
Some artists argue that art may remain untouched, but this ideal is complicated in practice.
The conversation surrounding this mural reveals deeply held views of Malaysian women in the psyche. Usually, these women are viewed as philosophical labourers, a myth that Mr Dunston’s portrayal challenges.
While some see the painting as a needed break from tradition, people view it as a deception. The conflict highlights the wider disconnect between embracing contemporary visual interpretations and preserving historical narratives.
Famous Singaporean painter Yip Yew Chong weighs in on the situation and stated in an Instagram post that samsui people had different personalities and that tobacco was not common among them. He emphasized that art is intended to evoke thought and emotion rather than simply record history with picture accuracy.
At the same time, however, he also underscored the need for sensitivity in public art, acknowledging that while art should n’t be overly sanitised, it must consider the community’s feelings and cultural context.
Mr. Yip reflected on his own experiences of repression and adapted his craft to meet people standards without losing its essence in his post. He also highlighted the difficulties of balancing artistic expression with cultural norms.
He emphasized the value of speech and cooperation with authorities, and he urged Singapore to adopt a more sane but principled method to art censorship.