What happens when you bring a big group of female artists in Singapore together? According to the women at Canvas Connections, the result is an explosion of creativity in their art studio! We hear from a handful of its members about the benefits of being part of an art collective.
Meet these female artists in Singapore
What started with seven female artists and an idea to form an art collective supporting women in the arts has flourished into a community and sisterhood. At Canvas Connections, 17 female artists in Singapore come together to share their learnings. Here they let their ideas run wild while they explore their unique art styles. Sponsored by Zubaadhi Art Studio & Gallery, the artists also have the opportunity to build their portfolios, show off their work throughout the year and share an art space.
RAJUL SHAH, a Founding Member of the art collective, explains: “The basic premise for creating the collective was to support each other in terms of showing our work. It’s much more economical for a group of artists to rent a space than an individual artist. We also wanted to build a community of artists where we could challenge and inspire one another. I love this group of ladies, everyone is supportive – there are no ‘egos’; there is only artistic sisterhood.”
Creating a supportive art collective
All of the women in the art collective highlight how much they have flourished through the supportive environment of Canvas Connections. LISA LARSON LEE, an intuitive abstract artist originally from Canada, says that being part of the group removes the isolation that artists can often grapple with.
“Being an artist can be a solitary endeavour, with countless hours spent alone in your art studio or workspace,” says Lisa. “The women in the collective are fabulous artists, but they’re also wonderful champions and cheerleaders, which is such a vital lifeline. I love that the group holds firm to the spirit that ‘a rising tide lifts all boats’.”
Multimedia artist BABITA SRIDHAR agrees. Her works are inspired by the human spirit, and the important space that Canvas Connections creates for female artists in Singapore has helped her grow artistically. “What I love most about being part of this collective,” says Babita, “is the opportunity to engage with such a diverse range of artistic talents and perspectives. It’s invigorating to be surrounded by such a wealth of talent. Together, we’re not only creating beautiful art but also building lasting connections and making a meaningful impact within the art community of Singapore.”
On an art journey
YASHIKA AGARWAL’s art is often inspired by the emotions of motherhood. However, once she has finished a piece reflecting her personal experiences, she then has to be able to sell it. Navigating this crossover between business and representing her true artistic self is a challenge that many artists share. Being part of Canvas Connections, Yashika is able to draw upon other artists’ advice to create the right balance.
“Maintaining your true artistic self alongside presenting and promoting your art for a buyer is a tough game. Being a part of this art collective, I have found a bridge between these two sides of the profession. The group focuses on learning, sharing, experimenting, supporting and growing together. This leads to selflessness, genuineness and a focus on pure art, a combination that creates the most sought-after work for collectors and art lovers.”
Another area of growth that many of the artists discussed involved using each other for feedback and working towards exhibitions. Founding member APARNA CHAKRAVARTY likes to work with a wide variety of mediums and experiment with colours and patterns. As she dabbles with new styles, learning from the group has been an essential part of her art journey.
I’ve received so much support from my fellow members too, including a lot of constructive criticism that allows me to grow as an artist. I’m so glad that we share ideas and resources too. I feel a sense of belonging and motivation to create, especially during times of creative block or selfdoubt. “The primary reasons why I joined this art collective were to collaborate, build my network and gain exposure,” adds Aparna. “And with many exhibitions lined up, it gives me opportunities to showcase my work to a broader audience.”
See their work outside the art studio
The next big show by this group of female artists in Singapore is called Canvas Connections – Artful Expressions. You can see this showcase on 4, 5 and 6 October at the Visual Arts Centre. As you wander through the carefully curated exhibition, you’ll find diverse works from traditional Indian folk art and still-life pieces to a myriad of abstract expressions. By the end, you’ll have a keen sense of what inspires and ignites each of their unique styles.
There will also be a couple of workshops and art talks during this time. Seats are limited, so reserve a spot by emailing admin@canvasconnections-art.com.
Want to see more?
In addition to exhibitions throughout the year, you can also find the artists’ works online and on Instagram @canvas. connections. Additionally, keep an eye out for other upcoming events led by experienced artists and industry professionals discussing technical skills to business strategies.
Visit the art collective’s website canvasconnections-art.com to find each artist’s story and artwork.
This article featuring female artists in Singapore first appeared in the September 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
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