Written by: Felicia Chua
Edited by: Crystal Hong
Photos by: Yun Xin
Ever wanted to know what it is like to be Picasso? Our very own USP students got down to creating their own unique pieces of artwork last Friday during one of USP Special Projects’ latest initiative, USPicasso. With a strong passion for the arts and many years of experience, the workshop was mentored by Professor Melvin Chen, a Philosophy professor, in the Crespion Cultural Room at Nanyang Technological University (NTU).
Kickstarting the workshop with an introduction of the history and origin of art, Prof Melvin went on to explain the fundaments of art such as the components of paint and its pigments, along with its respective forms of media. “I think with anything, it is important to understand its history and in this case, the context of art. [This is so that] students can understand the story of art, as well as where and how art originated”, said Prof Melvin who later added on how this would help in building a greater connection with the artworks.
Many different types of art forms were explored during the course of the workshop, including Flemish realism, Italian realism, realistic and abstract art just to name a few. Classical art pieces from well-known artists such as Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci and Jean Fragonard were shared as well. “I think it is very interesting for Prof Melvin to let us know about the types of art available out there. Before this I never knew that there were so many kinds of art, and even for something like painting, there are so many different styles”, said Wong Meng Hui, a Year 2 Sociology student.
Prof Melvin also humbly exhibited a few of his own personal artworks, ranging from a still life to digital art and graphic art. The field of art was mirrored to a blank canvas that every student has on their table, with infinite possibilities for each to create. Although painting might seem daunting initially, Prof Melvin encouraged the students to simply start somewhere and let their creativity juices and imagination flow for art is a dynamic process and the paintbrush is able to tell its own story.
The students then got down to trying it out on their own! As the famous saying goes, “The beginning is always the hardest”. Despite the initial inertia to start on their artworks, most of the students soon had a vision for their painting, with conversations being replaced by the steady strokes of the brushes. “At first, I was quite concerned with what to paint because I wanted it to be a good piece. But after a while, the surroundings just quietened down and all I focused on is where the next line goes, where to shade next”, said Tian Ning, a Year 3 Environmental Earth Systems Science student.
“Art materials are generally very expensive so when I do it by myself, I usually stick to pencil. This time, [with USP providing] the canvas, brushes and acrylic paint, it made it possible for me to do something I enjoy”, said Rhonda Toh, a Year 1 Sociology student. She was thankful for the opportunity to explore her interest in art.
USP often provides students with various platforms to explore their interests and passions. “USPicasso gave me a chance to pick up a new hobby as well as learn about the different types of art that exist. I think it is a really good initiative [to push for USP students] to try out new things other than just academics”, said Joan Chan, a Year 4 Psychology student.
More than what it appears to be on the surface, art can be seen to be an analogy of life and is often greater than the pursuit of creativity that it offers. “What initially enticed me to the arts was [how] the technical challenges one may face in art is a proxy for life; to be able to meet and overcome those challenges gives you confidence and faith and that is what I hope every student can remember after this session”, said Prof Melvin.
