Secrets Behind the Artisan #4 at CHC 🇸🇬

Art, for me, lives in the exchange of presence — receiving energy, returning it, and letting stories breathe through colour, movement, and memory.

This time, I had the honour of sharing the stage with Madam Gwee Seow Chian, the esteemed founder of Sin Yen Lin Hokkien Opera, who has dedicated over seventy years to this timeless craft. Her voice, gestures, and character transformations carry the heartbeat of a tradition that once shaped Singapore’s streets and festivals.

Watching her speak about each role with fire in her eyes — and seeing how effortlessly she shifts from performer to teacher, costume artist to cultural guardian — reminded me that heritage endures because someone keeps choosing to carry it forward, night after night.

Deep respect for her lifelong devotion. To witness that kind of artistry is to feel history alive — flamboyant, vulnerable, and profoundly human.

Immense gratitude to @chinatownheritagecentre, and to the wonderful team — grandson Kenneth Wong, moderator Carol, supervisor @taovictor , and translator Doris — for creating this space where cultural knowledge continues to move.
And heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, listened, and held these stories close. 🌿