 |
|
 |
Press Release of the Painted Bridge's Inauguration
The Alkaff Bridge, a modern pedestrian bridge that crosses the Singapore River at Robertson Quay, is undergoing a vibrantly colourful transformation in the coming weeks, as it is being painted by internationally acclaimed Philippine artist, Pacita Abad.
"Painting the Alkaff Bridge is my gift to Singapore. I passionately believe in public art and hope that this project inspires many more like it and brings art into the everyday lives of Singaporeans." - Pacita Abad, Artist
The project was conceived by Pacita earlier this year during her 3-month, artist-in-residence at the Singapore Tyler Print Institute (STPI). STPI, which is located next to the Alkaff Bridge, collaborates with artists from around the world to create fine art prints and papermaking. The STPI Gallery is currently exhibiting “Circles in my mind”, a large body of paper works recently completed by Pacita Abad. Well known for her use of rich colours, textures and shapes, Pacita's colourful bridge design is an outdoor extension of her art work done at STPI.
“Singapore's rapid progress towards becoming a "city for the arts" is resulting in greater public awareness and appreciation for the arts and STPI hopes that the transformation of the Alkaff Bridge into a work of art will both enhance the local environment and enrich those who live, work and visit the area.” – Mr. Leong Weng Kee, General Manager, STPI
The “Art Bridge” represents the successful collaboration of the artist, STPI, private companies, government agencies and committed individuals, all of whom donated their services to work together to bring greater public awareness and appreciation of public art in Singapore.
In addition to Pacita and STPI, the “Art Bridge” is supported by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), with permission to paint the bridge granted by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and CPG Consultants Pte Ltd. City Developments Limited (CDL), who is developing The Pier, a luxurious commercial cum residential complex at Robertson Quay, is also one of the key sponsors.
“Sponsoring this exciting arts project is in line with CDL's mission to make our community a better place to live in. Pacita Abad’s stimulating public art project will certainly add more life to the Robertson Quay / Mohammed Sultan area, which is developing into an arts hub and a favourite haunt for Singapore’s young professionals.” – Mr. Kwek Leng Joo, Managing Director, City Developments Limited
The paint for the Art Bridge has been provided by Nippon Paint (S) Pte Ltd, who offered their palette of over 11,000 colours for Pacita Abad to choose from. The physical painting of the bridge under the supervision of the artist, is being done by Professional Industrial Rope Access Services Pte Ltd (PIRAS), the highly skilled rope specialists, who have undertaken a number of exciting projects in Singapore.
“PIRAS is honoured to be part of this momentous project. The team is thrilled to be able to contribute their technical knowledge and skills to help bring colour and art to public spaces in Singapore.” - Mr. Terence Chan P. G., Director, PIRAS
The painting of the Alkaff Bridge is expected to be completed by mid January and STPI is currently working with its Robertson Quay neighbours to organize a festive celebration to mark the occasion and provide a kick start to the New Year at Robertson Quay
(Photo courtesy of Singapore Press Holdings)
(29
January
2004)
|
| |
|
|
|