"The lion city" by Poorvaja Seetharam in Singapore

My work was inspired by the strength and resilience of the country during challenging times. The combined forces of helping hands from all walks of life create a colorful and comfortable place for their people. The piece is framed by the nation’s flower, the orchid, along with patterns of Malaysian batik. Taking inspiration from the renowned “Creation of Adam” by Michelangelo, I pieced together different elements while enhancing the musculature of the two Merlion Adams. The Merlions embody the spirit of Singapore, the fish body represents Singapore’s origin of being a fishing village, then known as “Temasek”, meaning sea town in Javanese. The lion head represents the country’s name, the “lion city”. The boat maneuvers from one Adam to another amidst the turbulent waves, personifying the unfortunate year that 2020 has been. The boat, however, takes charge of the sea and reaches its destination. The piece expresses gratitude for the heroic figures that navigated the boat towards its destination, implying that the waves will slowly ripple back to its tranquility.