As the colour splashes, emotions twirl and swirl. And as darkness comes to pass, it is beginning of a new era where renewal reigns.

Batik on Rayon with Frame

89.5cm x 58cm

Beginning Of An Era

A renewal in life is coming towards me, and I will embrace it. In the process of creating this painting, as the colours mixed together, it dawned on me a feeling that darkness will soon come to pass. Replacing the darkness is an eternal light, which will accompany me throughout my life.

I refuse to be stuck in the cycle of relapsing into drugs and coming back in to prison. Family is a main contributing factor in my quest for a renewed life. I have learnt to let go of what I used to hold important to me. Now my priorities have changed, and my family and reconstruction of my life are top priority. I too, harbour hopes and dreams for the future. As I reflected on my disastrous past, the first step is to realise that I need to take the crucial step to be aware of my weaknesses and in order to conquer oneself, I need to overcome all obstacles in my life.

Difficult moments will come to a pass. In this COVID-19 situation, we need to hold strong our priorities and beliefs that all will soon be over. The victory will be ours! A great thank you to all people who have sacrificed immensely for fighting the virus.

*Names have been changed to protect their identity

‍

Jerome

In partnership with Yellow Ribbon Project, selected artworks created by inmates from Visual Arts Hub (VAH) are showcased to represent the overcoming of adversity, instilling hope and to encourage the community not to give up during uncertain times.

The featured artworks can be adopted by members of the public. All proceeds will go to the Yellow Ribbon Fund in support of the rehabilitation of ex-offenders. If you are interested, kindly contact Ms Carol Ho at Carol_HO@yellowribbon.gov.sg for more information.

‍

The Yellow Ribbon Project (YRP) is a national public engagement campaign aimed at changing society’s mindset in giving ex-offenders a second chance in life. The community initiative aims to create awareness of the need to give second chances to ex-offenders, generate acceptance of ex-offenders and their families in the community, and inspire community action to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-offenders into society.

For more information about YRP, visit their website at https://www.yellowribbon.gov.sg/