Vigour, idealism, and fearlessness are a few of the words one might associate with the notion of youth. Afterall, it is a formative period in life when one begins to negotiate a sense of identity and dreams for the future. These sentiments manifest in every generation while reflecting the specific concerns of its time.

With youth and its various associations as a curatorial framework, the exhibition gathers significant early works by Singapore artists. It proposes a new lens to consider Singapore art history by teasing out affinities across generations, from pre-independence years to today. The theme is explored in two broad directions: firstly, through representation and the use of symbols; and secondly, as a reflection of the youthful spirit of experimentation. This curatorial approach takes into consideration both the micro- and macro- histories embedded in reading a work of art. Individually, each artwork is a time capsule, providing insight into the artist’s aspirations and anxieties at the early stage of their career. Taken together, the exhibition tells a layered story of Singapore art as artists respond to the baggage of history and contribute their voices to the discourse.

Teo Eng Seng, Emperor's Choice, 1981.
Image courtesy of the artist and Art Agenda.

List of Artists: ‍Song-Ming Ang, Genevieve Chua, Amanda Heng, Lai Yu Tong, Lim Yew Kuan, Ruben Pang, Anthony Poon, Shubigi Rao, Jeremy Sharma, Guo-Liang Tan, Tang Da Wu, Tay Ining, Ian Tee, Teo Eng Seng, Youths In Balaclava, Zulkhairi Zulkiflee.