Twardzik-Ching Chor Leng's larger-than-life sculptures, called Five Stones, debuted earlier this month as part of NAC's Arts in Your Neighbourhood November 2019 edition. Commissioned by the National Arts Council's Public Art Trust in commemoration of the Singapore Bicentennial, the artwork comprises of larger-than-life inflatables reminiscent of the much-loved childhood game.
Since its debut, Five Stones has attracted thousands of Punggol residents to interact with the work – whether they're touching the sculptures or playfully tossing them around. The artist aims to invite the public to engage in the spirit of communal play and openness, much like the kampong days. If you take a closer look, you'll find that each stone features patterns inspired by Singapore's heritage, like geometric prints inspired by vintage windows and door grills of HDB estates in the 1960s to 80s, and the taman teratai (lotus garden) motifs often found in Indonesian batik.
The two sets of artworks will pop up individually in ten different locations island-wide over the next three months, bringing life to public spaces and encouraging people to bond over the interactive works. The ten stones will then be brought together again – and illuminated – in the Civic District from January 10 to 19 as part of Singapore Art Week. So get your cameras ready for these nostalgic, colourful sculptures!