Voices & Vision #1 - Proof of Concept: The Artist's Role in a New Nation

Voices & Vision – Art Thought Leadership Symposium

Presented by Mastercard

Sat and Sun, 26 – 27 July 2025, 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Voices & Vision is a 2-day art thought leadership programme on the occasion of AP60 that creates a space for meaningful exchange and deeper engagement with real-world issues. Join us in shaping the dialogue on our shared past, present, and future.

Opening Note by Prof Tan Tai Yong

Sat, 26 July, 2:00 PM – 2:15 PM

The symposium kicks off with Prof Tan Tai Yong, President of SUSS and respected historian, who will share his thoughts on the history of nation-building in Singapore.

Speaker:

Prof Tan Tai Yong | President of the Singapore University of Social Sciences and Honorary Chairman of the National Museum, Co-Chair of the Founder's Memorial Committee

Panel #1 - Proof of Concept: The Artist's Role in a New Nation

Sat, 26 July, 2:15 PM – 3:30 PM

The formation of a new nation is more than a political or economic endeavour—it is a cultural birth. In such formative times, artists play a critical role, acting as both mirrors and architects of collective identity. Collectively, this panel will explore how artists serve as the "proof of concept" for a nation’s ideals, aspirations, and contradictions, shaping the soul of a country before or alongside its institutions.

Speakers:

1. Paul Tan (Moderator) | Chief Executive Officer, Community Foundation of Singapore, Former Deputy Chief Executive, NAC; Poet
2. Adeline Chia | Independent Art Writer, Reviews Editor at ArtReview Asia
3. Dr Seng Yujin | Director (Curatorial, Research & Exhibitions) at National Gallery Singapore

This ticket only allows entry to Panel #1 Proof of Concept: The Artist's Role in a New Nation.

Explore the various discussions within Voices & Vision by clicking the links below. This is one of four panel discussions.

1. Proof of Concept: The Artist's Role in a New Nation
2. The Power of Patronage: Shaping Art, Culture, and Lasting Legacies
3. Changing Skylines: Evolving Practices in Urban Planning and Cultural Stewardship
4. Present and Away