By Sim Chuin Peng
NUS Libraries is thrilled to receive three remarkable calligraphy pieces, titled, Singapore’s Story in Calligraphy (墨迹新加坡故事). This is a special collaboration between Associate Professor Lam Lap from the NUS Department of Chinese Studies and renowned local calligrapher, Mr Tan Chong Han (NUS Engineering, ’04). The unveiling of the art works took place on Wednesday, 11 September 2024 and the works are displayed at the Southeast Asian Chinese Collection in the Wan Boo Sow Chinese Library.
Deputy University Librarian and Cluster Head of Collections Management & Preservation Dr Sim Chuin Peng (left), and Associate Professor Lam Lap (middle), presented a certificate of appreciation to thank Mr Tan Chong Han (right) for his generous donation.
Singapore’s Story in Calligraphy (墨迹新加坡故事)
Mr Tan created masterful renderings of three poignant poems by Professor Lam. Each piece vividly captures significant moments in Singapore’s history, blending craft with profound symbolism:
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- The Japanese Occupation (History of Singapore. Part II) 新加坡史之二. 淪陷時期
Set in white characters on black paper, this piece captures the somber reality of Singapore’s wartime period.
- The Japanese Occupation (History of Singapore. Part II) 新加坡史之二. 淪陷時期
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- Independence (History of Singapore. Part V) 新加坡史之五. 獨立
Featuring white characters on black paper, this work reflects Singapore’s separation from Malaysia and the path to sovereignty.
- Independence (History of Singapore. Part V) 新加坡史之五. 獨立
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- Ethnic Cohesion (History of Singapore. Part VII) 新加坡史之七. 種族融合
Presented with red paper and white characters, this piece celebrates the harmonious coexistence of Singapore’s four races, mirroring the colours of our national flag.
- Ethnic Cohesion (History of Singapore. Part VII) 新加坡史之七. 種族融合
A distinguished calligrapher who began his craft at 17, Mr Tan has earned international acclaim, including gold and first-class awards in 2019 from prestigious competitions in China and Singapore. He is known for his ambidextrous skill and his contributions to calligraphy. Reflecting on this donation, Mr Tan said, “The honour is mine as I am able to display my work at an organisation as renowned and established as my Alma mater.”
These calligraphy pieces enrich the cultural tapestry of NUS Libraries and celebrates Singapore’s rich history. Visit the Wan Boo Sow Chinese Library (inside Central Library, Level 5) to experience these remarkable works of art and reflect on the powerful stories they convey.
