Our Tampines Hub, Let’s Make Art at Gate 7, promotes creating art together as a family. Why Parent-Child Bonding Matters for Emotional Wellbeing Parenting is not just about providing, it is about nurturing wellbeing through a strong parent-child bond, and art can play a powerful role in this journey. Quality time rooted in creativity helps children feel emotionally secure, forming what psychologists call a “secure base” for life. Research consistently shows that when families engage in art together, it strengthens the parent-child bond and supports emotional wellbeing, shaping how children build trust, regulate emotions, and relate to the world around them. In these shared moments, art becomes more than an activity, it becomes a language of connection. The impact of a strong parent-child bond on wellbeing extends beyond the individual child to the entire family system, and art offers a natural bridge for this connection. Families that engage in creative art practices together often experience better communication, reduced conflict, and deeper empathy. Through collaborative art, children and parents co-create meaning, reinforcing emotional safety and mutual respect. This strengthens the parent-child bond while promoting holistic wellbeing, making everyday interactions more supportive and harmonious. RDSS Art Jamming Event for Families The Role of Art in Strengthening Parent-Child Bond and Family Wellbeing A powerful example of this emerged during an art workshop, where a non-verbal child, their neurotypical sibling, and their parents came together to explore creativity. Initially hesitant, the family slowly began engaging through colors and textures, allowing art to guide their interaction. The non-verbal child expressed emotions through painting, while the sibling mirrored and supported, creating a shared visual story. In that moment, the parent-child bond deepened as the parents began to understand their child beyond words, enhancing emotional wellbeing for everyone involved. This experience highlighted how art can transcend communication barriers and foster genuine connection within the parent-child bond. Creative collaboration through art is not just an activity, it is an investment in long-term wellbeing and a stronger parent-child bond. Workshops that center art provide families with a safe, engaging space to connect, communicate, and grow together. These shared experiences nurture empathy, patience, and joy, all essential for emotional wellbeing.  Families are often encouraged to create art together, creating visual memories of their shared bond. Join Us For Our Parent-Child Bonding Art Workshop If you are looking to strengthen your parent-child bond, wait no more. Now is the time to explore the transformative power of art. Join our Parent-Child Bonding Art Workshop and create meaningful moments that will support your child’s development and your family’s wellbeing for years to come. Join us for an evening of fun, connection and creativity because the best lessons and memories come from the moments you make together.   Sign Up now - https://www.artforgood.sg/service-page/parent-child-bonding-workshops?referral=service_list_widget Know Your Facilitators Carolyn Chew  Carolyn Chew is a dedicated facilitator who uses art to nurture emotional wellbeing and strengthen the parent-child bond. With extensive experience in mentoring youth and working in inclusive spaces, she creates safe environments where children, including neurodiverse individuals, can express themselves freely through art. Her approach focuses on building connection through presence, empathy, and shared creativity, helping families move beyond routine interactions into meaningful engagement. Carolyn believes that simple, creative moments can deeply enhance wellbeing and transform the parent-child bond. Amanda Chen-Lee Amanda Chen-Lee is an experienced Art Therapist who specializes in enhancing wellbeing within communities, especially deepening the parent-child bond through art. With over a decade of experience across clinical, educational, and community settings, she uses art as a powerful tool for emotional expression and connection. Amanda’s structured yet empathetic approach helps children and parents communicate beyond words, fostering trust and understanding. Her work highlights how shared creative experiences can strengthen the parent-child bond and support long-term wellbeing.

On November 28th, Art for Good had the profound honour of partnering with the Rare Disorders Society (Singapore, RDSS) to host a special art therapy session titled “Colours of Hope.” More than just a creative gathering, this event was designed to create a safe, gentle space for emotional expression, reflection, and collective healing—bringing together patients living with rare disorders, their caregivers, and siblings to explore hope, strength, and connection through colour and creativity. Art therapy, as a form of expressive healing, offers unique value for communities facing physical or emotional challenges: it bypasses verbal barriers, allowing participants to communicate feelings that may be hard to put into words. For the RDSS community, this session was an opportunity to step away from the daily struggles of managing rare disorders and focus on self-expression—whether through bold brushstrokes, soft watercolour blends, or symbolic imagery. Together, we explored “what hope looks like” in tangible, creative ways: some participants painted rainbows breaking through storm clouds, others depicted sunlit gardens bursting with cherry blossoms and fireflies, and a few crafted abstract pieces of glowing hues—each work a personal testament to resilience 🌈🌸. The magic of the day lay not only in individual creation but in shared connection. Caregivers, who often prioritize others’ needs, found space to acknowledge their own emotions; siblings bonded over collaborative art-making; and patients felt seen and celebrated for their unique perspectives. What moved us most deeply was the participants’ heartfelt decision to gift their completed artworks back to RDSS—each piece now serves as a symbol of community, appreciation, and shared hope within the organization’s spaces. These artworks are more than decorations: they are reminders of the strength found in coming together, and of the healing power of creativity to unite and uplift. This session aligns with Art for Good’s core mission: to leverage art as a force for social good. Just as public art enhances community spaces and fosters belonging, targeted art therapy sessions like “Colours of Hope” address the specific emotional needs of marginalized communities—adding immeasurable value to their well-being and sense of community. We are deeply grateful to RDSS for trusting us to hold this space, and to every courageous participant who brought their authenticity, vulnerability, and strength to the canvas. Your resilience shines through every brushstroke, and your artworks will continue to inspire hope for the entire RDSS community 💛.

8 January 2026 - raiSE’s 10th anniversary celebration was an evening of deep reflection, gratitude, and collective pride, marking a significant milestone in the growth of Singapore’s social enterprise ecosystem. Graced by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Minister Masagos Zulkifli, the event brought together over 600 guests from the public sector, corporates, social service agencies, and raiSE Social Enterprise members. The evening honoured a decade of purposeful work in building a more inclusive and resilient society through enterprises that place social impact at the heart of their business models. A key highlight of the celebration was the immersive social enterprise showcase themed “A Nation, Heart at Work.” Featuring 82 raiSE Social Enterprises, the showcase brought to life the role of social enterprises in nation-building through real products and services addressing key national priorities. Organised into five thematic zones, it demonstrated how social innovation, inclusivity, and technology can be leveraged to strengthen communities, support social service agencies, foster social mobility, and create meaningful employment opportunities - reinforcing the idea that social impact is not a cost, but a powerful value creator. Amanda and Gabriel from "Art For Good" Team Art for Good was humbled and grateful to be one of the emerging social enterprises featured in the showcase. Being part of this platform was both affirming and inspiring, as we stood alongside fellow social enterprises who are deeply committed to creating positive change through their work. As a growing social enterprise, this experience reaffirmed our belief in the transformative power of art as a tool for healing, connection, and social good within the community. We were truly happy to be part of this meaningful milestone and celebration of the ecosystem. Looking ahead, Art for Good remains committed to deepening our practice, strengthening partnerships, and doing more to create sustained and meaningful social impact. As the social enterprise sector in Singapore continues to evolve, we strive to contribute thoughtfully and responsibly, journeying together with like-minded organisations to build a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Artworks by two artists from Art for Good were featured at Downtown Gallery’s The Joy of Giving exhibition (24 November 2025 to 4 January 2026). Their artworks were printed on coasters and eco-bags as part of the gallery’s Christmas promotion and give-back initiative. Celebrating Our Artists This Christmas 2025 This festive season, Art for Good is honoured to be part of The Joy of Giving exhibition at Downtown Gallery, a showcase that truly reflects the spirit of the season. Running from 24 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, the exhibition celebrates giving in its truest form—by giving our artists a platform to be seen not for their challenges, but for their extraordinary gifts; giving audiences the opportunity to discover and support art with purpose; and giving persons with special needs the empowerment that comes from knowing their work matters. We are deeply grateful to @downstown gallery for their generous support and for creating space for our artists’ voices and creativity to shine. One of the featured artists is Chloe Chek, who lives with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 (SMA2), a genetic condition that affects muscle movement. While Chloe uses a wheelchair and has limited fine motor skills, she has a deep love for art and a positive outlook on life. Creating art allows her to express herself and connect with others, and she hopes her artworks will be appreciated and chosen by people to bring into their homes. We also celebrate Koh Jun Kai, an artist diagnosed with autism. Drawing helps Jun Kai feel calm, regulate his emotions, and express himself when words are difficult. With a strong eye for detail and a love for building Lego structures—especially Lego Technic gears—his precision and focus are clearly reflected in his artworks, where every detail is thoughtfully considered. Being part of The Joy of Giving exhibition affirms what this season is truly about: recognising talent, creating meaningful opportunities, and celebrating the value of every individual. Each purchase of an artwork or merchandise item is a message of encouragement to our artists—reminding them that their creativity is seen, appreciated, and valued. As we celebrate this season of giving, we thank everyone who has supported Chloe, Jun Kai, and all our artists. Their creativity reminds us that art has the power to unite, inspire, and transform—and that the greatest joy of the holidays lies in lifting others up. A special thank you to @downstown gallery for standing with us, and making this project possible! Your generosity doesn’t just bring Christmas cheer—it fuels a lifetime of confidence and purpose 💛🎄.

2023 - Present During the holidays, to encourage art-making within the community, Our Tampines Hub has engaged us to organize a series of artists to introduce to the community. By exposing the community to different art forms by different artists, we promote the benefits of art-making and the love of learning. The series of workshops featured talented artists from diverse backgrounds, captivating attendees with their creative expressions. This project is aligned with our commitment to bringing the community together through the power of art and to creating better communities through art. Schedule: March School Holidays June School Holidays September School Holidays December School Holidays Hula Dancing & Lei Making Alaka‘i Puanani Namiko 22 to 24, & 26 December Guided by the multidisciplinary artist and award-winning portraitist Alaka‘i Puanani Namiko, participants immersed themselves in the vibrant traditions of Hawaiian cultural arts. In the Hula Dancing & Lei Making workshop, Alaka‘i wove together her deep knowledge of heritage, movement, and creative expression, reflecting the unique blend found in her own artistic practice. Attendees learned foundational hula steps and vocabulary, connecting movement to meaning. The session also offered a hands-on experience in crafting vibrant, authentic Hawaiian leis. More than a simple lesson, the workshop served as a joyful and respectful celebration of culture, leaving each participant with not only new skills and a beautiful handmade lei, but also a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian artistic expression. Scented Wood-Cut Christmas Ornaments Gabriel Lee 16 to 19 December 2025 Guided by craft specialist Gabriel, participants celebrated creativity in the Wooden Scents Crafts workshop, a perfect activity for festive seasons and special occasions. In this hands-on session, attendees learned the art of woodcraft to create their own unique ornaments and decor pieces, each infused with calming essential oils. Gabriel led an exploration of natural textures and soothing aromas, making the process a sensory and meditative experience. Designed for all ages and skill levels, the workshop was an ideal avenue for team bonding, community events, or festive gatherings. Each participant left not only with a beautiful, scented keepsake or thoughtful gift but also with the experience of having meaningfully connected to their craft and community. Introduction to Creative Writing Jenny Faith Koh 9 to 12 December 2025 Under the guidance of writer, educator, and mental health advocate Jenny Faith, participants were welcomed into the foundational craft of storytelling. With introducing the essential elements of plot and narrative structure through a series of creative prompts. Jenny fostered an inclusive space where expression knew no single form, encouraging attendees to shape their ideas through writing, drawing, or a hybrid of both. The workshop empowered each individual to tap into their personal voice and imagination. By the session’s end, participants had not only grasped the basics of storytelling but had also begun drafting their own unique narratives, leaving with both new skills and the confidence to continue their creative journey. Introduction to Children's Book Illustration Colette Alexandros 2 to 5 December 2025 Under the guidance of freelance illustrator Colette Alexandros, participants unlocked the whimsical craft of children's book illustration. This hands-on session demystified visual storytelling, demonstrating how illustrations partner with text to enhance emotion and pace. With a focus on playful creativity over technical perfection, attendees engaged in exercises that built foundational skills, allowing them to begin sketching their own narrative scenes. By the end, participants left not only with their first illustrated creations but also with the tools to tell their own stories through pictures.. The Art of Poetry Aaron Lee & Dr Gwee Li Sui 9 to 12 September 2025 From verse to voice, participants in the workshop discovered how this timeless medium can be both deeply personal and universally resonant. In a single, immersive session, two of Singapore's most established literary voices lead participants through wielding language, shaping imagery, and playing with form through metaphor, rhythm, and line. With encouragement to experiment, each participant crafted an original poem—distilling reflections, observations, or stories into a potent, artistic concentrate. By the end, the space hummed with the quiet power of newly shaped verses, each one a distinctive and authentic echo of its creator. Seasonal Soy Candle Tablets Evelyn Ng 25 to 29 December 2024 Soft scents filled the air as Evelyn Ng guided participants through the gentle, satisfying process of crafting their own soy candles. Over five calming days, melted wax, carefully chosen fragrances, and hand-poured creations came together in jars and tins, each one as unique as its maker. Evelyn shared tips on blending scents, selecting wicks, and adding decorative touches that turned simple candles into personal keepsakes or thoughtful gifts. By the end, the tables glowed with rows of finished pieces—ready to brighten spaces and carry their warm, lingering aromas into the new year. Weave and Craft: Woven Coasters Workshop Belle Gan 17 to 21 December 2024 The clink of mugs and the warmth of shared conversation inspired the creations in Belle Gan’s woven coasters workshop. Across five days, participants experimented with colours, patterns, and textures, turning simple strands of fibre into sturdy, artful pieces fit for any coffee table. Belle introduced different weaving techniques, from tight, practical weaves to looser, more decorative styles, encouraging everyone to mix and match to suit their taste. By the end of the week, each coaster carried not just its maker’s chosen palette, but also a little piece of their personality—woven in, thread by thread. Embroidery Fun: Hat Edition! Stephanie Tan 10 to 14 December 2024 Some came for the fashion, others for the thrill of making something they could actually wear—but everyone left with a hat that told a story. From 10–14 December 2024, Stephanie Tan led a lively workshop where fabric met creativity in the form of bucket hats and caps. She guided participants through pattern drafting, fabric cutting, and careful stitching, sprinkling in styling tips along the way. The hum of sewing machines mixed with bursts of laughter as each piece took shape. By the end, rows of hats sat proudly on the worktables—ready to shade their makers from the sun and show off a little handmade flair Where Small Pages Hold Big Stories Michelle Liew 3 to 6 September 2024 From paper to personality, participants in Michelle Liew’s zine-making workshop discovered how this DIY medium can be both intimate and impactful. Over four engaging days, Michelle guided the group through brainstorming ideas, planning layouts, and adding visual elements using illustration, collage, and typography. With plenty of room for experimentation, each attendee created a unique, handcrafted zine—capturing personal stories, playful concepts, or thought-provoking messages in a compact, tangible form. By the end, the room was filled with stacks of small but powerful publications, each one a true reflection of its maker. Sculpting the Sea: Marine Clay Art Charmaine Loh 18 to 21 June 2024 Guided by the skilled hands of artist Charmaine Loh, participants embarked on an ocean-inspired creative journey, shaping marine-themed artworks from clay. Across four immersive days, Charmaine introduced a range of sculpting and texturing techniques, demonstrating how to capture the graceful movement of sea life and the intricate details of coral and shells. Through careful instruction and personal encouragement, she empowered attendees to experiment with form, colour, and composition, resulting in pieces that celebrated the beauty and diversity of the underwater world. By the workshop’s conclusion, each participant proudly presented their own clay creation—a tactile tribute to the wonders of the sea. Macramé Keychains Workshop Novelisa Delima 28 to 31 May 2024 There’s a quiet rhythm to working with macramé—loop, pull, tighten, repeat—and over four days, Novelisa Delima invited participants into that meditative flow. Between lively chats and moments of focused silence, strands of cord gradually transformed under her guidance into sturdy, stylish keychains. She shared knotting techniques, tips on choosing the right materials, and ways to add decorative touches that make each piece one-of-a-kind. By the final session, the table was filled with colourful creations, each carrying the maker’s own personality woven into its design. Introduction to Wildlife Painting: Portrait of a Hornbill Thong Chow Ngian 12 to 15 March 2024 Under the tutelage of esteemed artist Thong Ngian Chow, participants were immersed in the captivating realm of realistic wildlife paintings, exploring mixed mediums with fervor. With meticulous guidance, Chow imparted the intricacies of his craft, focusing on the portrayal of a majestic hornbill. Through the method of transfer, colored washes, and delicate detailing with watercolor pencils, attendees were empowered to breathe life into their canvases, each stroke a testament to Chow's expertise. The Nestling Films Wendy Mack 26 to 29 December 2023 Participants embarked in this unique workshop to weave intricate coil nests or baskets. Through engaging visual, auditory, and tactile activities, they explored the essence of a safe space. Guided through foundational weaving techniques, they learned to shape their personal havens while immersing themselves in a curated soundscape and rich textures that deepened their creative focus. More than learning a craft, attendees created a tangible, held expression of comfort—each unique vessel emerging as a serene symbol of their inner calm Sketching with Ink! Uhky Uhky 12 to 15 December 2023 Under the expert guidance of artist Uhky Uhky, participants discovered the dramatic power of pen and ink. This hands-on workshop focused on mastering contrast—the essential interplay of light and dark that gives depth and life to a drawing. Working with both black and colored inks on white paper, attendees practiced controlling value to transform simple sketches into intricate, visually compelling artworks. The session encouraged personal experimentation, allowing each artist’s individual style to emerge in their unique creations. By the end, everyone had not only honed a foundational artistic skill but had also experienced the immersive and satisfying craft of ink illustration. Acrylic Painting Workshop! Eeshaun 5 to 8 December 2023 Under the guidance of artist Eeshaun, , participants dove into the vibrant world of abstract acrylic painting. This hands-on workshop emphasized creative expression through color exploration, spontaneous composition, and improvisational techniques. Under Eeshaun's instruction, attendees learned to translate feeling into form, building their own unique abstract works layer by layer. By focusing on intuition and artistic freedom, the session offered a dynamic and accessible introduction to abstract art, allowing each person to leave with not only a deeper understanding of the form but also a personal, expressive painting. Get Crafty with Leather! Kult Bespoke 5 to 8 September 2023 Participants learned how to handcraft their own leather goods! Choosing from one of the following four leather items to make: Luggage Label, Luggage Tag, Bag Tag, or Pet Tag, they had an artisanal leather-making experience, including the option of customisation by painting or hot foil stamping, to add finishing touches in the personalisation of their art pieces. Everyone had lots of fun creating these pieces! Let's Make Mini Wooden Gliders! Gabriel Lee 20 to 23 June 2023 Discover the fascinating world of aerodynamics, craftsmanship, and artistic expression in our event. Learn about flight principles while building and decorating your own small wooden gliders. Experience the joy of seeing your creations take flight, combining knowledge, creativity, and the thrill of aviation. Unleash your inner aviator and embark on this engaging journey with us. Create Fun & Cute Chibi Art! Amanda Chen 13 to 16 June 2023 Originating from Japan, stylized character drawing introduces the enchanting realm of chibi characters. With their distinctive traits, including oversized heads and expressive facial expressions, these adorable creations add a playful and cute touch to any artwork. Engaging in the creation of chibi characters is both enjoyable and creatively fulfilling, providing artists with a delightful means to express their imagination and artistic flair. Fun with Nagomi Art! Keat Leong 6 to 9 June 2023 Pastel Nagomi Art, originating from Japan, is a healing and therapeutic form of painting. Using pastels and fingers, it creates gentle, heartwarming art pieces. With delicate strokes and blending, this art form brings a sense of tranquility and inner peace. Embrace Pastel Nagomi Art to tap into your creativity and experience the soothing power of this engaging practice. Caricatures with Cartoon Pete! Peter Loh 30 May to 2 June 2023 Discover the fascinating world of aerodynamics, craftsmanship, and artistic expression in our event. Learn about flight principles while building and decorating your own small wooden gliders. Experience the joy of seeing your creations take flight, combining knowledge, creativity, and the thrill of aviation. Unleash your inner aviator and embark on this engaging journey with us.

Featuring Amanda & Gabriel from Art for Good Transcript of interview. Watch interview here TEASER Amanda: So when I first saw Chloe for her art therapy, that was five years ago. She couldn't even hold a pencil properly. Sometimes, what we want to do is empower different individuals by giving them different art projects to work on. This not only builds their portfolio, but also builds their sense of self — their self-concept and self-confidence — so that they can see that they can be more and they can do more. INTRODUCTION Host: Hello and welcome to Quiet Ripples, a podcast where we speak to everyday Singaporeans doing extraordinary things for Singaporeans. Today, we have Amanda and Gabriel from Art for Good. Say hi! Thank you for joining us today. Maybe we can start with a round of introductions. Amanda: Hi, I'm Amanda from Art for Good. I'm an art therapist at Art for Good. I do a lot of art therapy-based projects where we use art as a way of healing, as well as a way of engaging people for mental wellbeing and mental health. Gabriel: Hi, I am Gabriel. I run the operations for Art for Good. At the same time, I work on community art projects to engage the community. ROLES AT ART FOR GOOD Host: Let's talk about your roles at Art for Good. Gabriel: As I mentioned, I run the operations and the day-to-day work for Art for Good — the backend of things, like running the website and getting things up. When there are deliveries for customers who want our products, I'll arrange and do the deliveries. I also work on our community projects — the bigger projects where we engage the community. One example is a project we did with CapitaLand for their 40th anniversary. We did a bench art programme. They had 40 benches, and we worked with artists whose paintings were then reproduced onto the benches. These benches are now available for the public to use. Most of them are at Science Park, and I think there are nine at the National Library. Host: Oh wow! Gabriel: So that's one of the projects that we do. Host: And Amanda, what's your role in Art for Good? Amanda: I oversee most of the projects that come through and see whether they fulfil our mission — whether we are really using art to create some good. If it's an art therapy-based project, that's where I come in and lead those projects as well. I do a lot of work with children from low-income families, persons with special needs and disabilities, and the ageing population, including dementia care. So we're working with different communities to bring together different objectives and aims, but we're really looking at overall mental health and wellbeing and how we can support that. One of the projects that came out of some of our art programmes for those with special needs is giving them a platform to sell their artwork, as well as providing them with a portfolio. This contributes to a different self-concept, self-identity and self-confidence. HOW ART FOR GOOD STARTED Host: Let's talk about how you started Art for Good. Amanda: The starting point was kind of a little bit of a kick. I was actually pretty content just serving clients and working independently. Host: So you were doing art therapy before? Amanda: Yes, that's right. I've been an art therapist for ten years, while Art for Good has only been around for about seven years. As an art therapist, I was freelancing and working with different organisations on my own to provide art therapy services. One of the organisations I worked with was The Red Pencil. This is the only art therapy charity in Singapore, and I still work with them to date because I find their work very meaningful. But sometimes, art therapy is not that accessible, especially to people who can't afford it. Art therapy can cost anywhere from $90 to $200 per hour. Host: Oh wow. Amanda: So we can see that people from lower-income families might not be able to afford it. They then need to rely on different organisations and charities to access it. It's also about looking at how something as beneficial as art therapy can be applied to the community and made more accessible. That's how I decided that I wanted to start Art for Good. I believe it came full circle for me because, with all the different things I was doing, creating Art for Good just made sense. Of course, once you create an organisation, you need the right people to help move it forward. I was very blessed to have Gabriel join me on this journey because this type of work is very difficult to do on your own. You need reliable, capable and compassionate people because this is not an easy journey. There are a lot of sacrifices and a lot of giving involved. Compassion and empathy are really needed on this journey. GABRIEL'S JOINING STORY Host: So, how did Gabriel join Art for Good? Gabriel: Prior to Art for Good, I was working for an organisation called CHARIS — Caritas Humanitarian Relief Initiatives of Singapore — under the Catholic Church. I ran a lot of mission programmes. My main goal was to run overseas missions for disasters in other countries, as well as lead teams of volunteers on these missions. We had a programme with The Red Pencil where we wanted to bring art therapists to the Philippines to help during Typhoon Haiyan, particularly to support children and women in the affected areas. That's actually where I met Amanda again. We were church friends, and by chance we met again. I said, "I didn't know you were doing this!" She was looking at Myanmar, and I had a Myanmar programme as well. When I left CHARIS after four years, she roped me into starting Art for Good as a charity. I suggested that instead of doing it as a charity, perhaps we could be a social enterprise. As a charity, there are a lot of rules and regulations to follow. Sometimes decisions require a board of directors, whereas as a social enterprise, we have more flexibility to make decisions. That's where I came in — looking at what projects we could do where we could function both as an enterprise and create social impact. HOW IS ART THERAPY BENEFICIAL? Host: You briefly mentioned that art therapy is beneficial for your clients. Maybe we can talk about what kind of benefits it provides. Amanda: Art therapy is basically psychology using art as an additional tool that complements the therapeutic process. Sometimes it's very difficult for people to sit down and talk about problems or issues. Art can be a way to bridge that conversation. A small art activity can help people organise their thoughts and plan what they want to say before they actually say it. It can help with processing and reflection. It also depends on who you're helping. For example, when we're working with people with dementia, we look at engagement and sometimes at tapping into different memory sources and different parts of the brain. Seniors sometimes think art is a waste of time and push it aside. But once they actually engage in the process, the outcome can be very different. They stay in the process longer, realise that they enjoy it, and add so much personality and character to their work. You can see different identities and personalities emerge. They're then able to confidently tell more stories, converse better and connect socially. For people with special needs, it also depends on their age and level of functioning. For those who are more independent, you can do more reflective work. For those with lower levels of functioning, you may look more at occupational therapy approaches and simplifying emotions and feelings so that they can connect with the process better. For those who are non-verbal, art can help them put meaning and communication to what they're doing. Art is a very powerful medium that enables them to do that. It's a more complex way of working, but it's also a very effective way of working with different individuals and groups who need this type of support. Host: It's just that therapy itself, no matter what type of therapy, tends to be more expensive. Amanda: Yes. I think that's one of the tricky situations in Singapore. Therapy is available, and there are a lot of outlets available, but there are factors like cost. I do have a mixture of different clients as well, and I think it's very important to listen to what their needs are. I find that it's most beneficial to work with different organisations. One such organisation is the Rare Disorders Society of Singapore, which believes in mental health and therapy. They provide a budget for their beneficiaries so that therapy becomes more affordable and subsidised to some extent. MENTAL HEALTH STIGMAS Host: Let's talk about some of the stigmas that you face. Amanda: Some of the stigma we face comes from clients who come with the usual taboo that we hear: "I have a mental illness and I'm going to a clinic." They worry that it's an issue or that their friends will make fun of them. One of the ways we tackled this was by creating a studio that doesn't look like a clinical room. Instead of white walls and a hospital-like environment, we turned it into an art gallery of sorts. It's a little more comfortable, and we have a privacy screen to ensure that people walking by the studio don't invade our clients' privacy. We're also in a very quiet location with low footfall, so it's more comfortable for our clients and beneficiaries. When people come to us with personal issues, sometimes they cry. Being in a quiet, secluded and protected space helps with that mentality. Gabriel: I think it follows a similar trajectory — that if you seek mental health support, there's something wrong with you. There has been a lot of re-education around this. It's okay to seek mental health support. But you're also working with older adults and seniors who may still feel that this is a big issue. Sometimes, when parents themselves are experiencing mental health issues, they may push back or deny the issue and put it all on their child. Amanda: If they don't believe in art therapy and the child does receive it and enjoys it, ultimately it can come down to the caregiver or parent who decides whether to support or stop the art therapy. It can be sad to see a child making headway and progress, but the parent steps away because they don't like the therapist or the fees. Sometimes parents may also contribute to a child's emotional distress when they don't handle certain situations properly. That's one of the challenges where we need to educate the people supporting the child on how to better manage the situation and really help the child. CHALLENGES FACED BY ART FOR GOOD Host: Let's talk about some of the challenges you face at Art for Good. Gabriel: One of the challenges is that, because we are a social enterprise, we lose out on some projects because we don't fall under a nonprofit or charity-type service. Sometimes organisations want double tax exemption or require us to have IPC status. Therefore, they won't purchase some of our products because we don't fall under that category. That's really sad because we still fall under the category of trying to create good and social impact, and trying to help different individuals, including people with disabilities. Just because we are not a charity doesn't mean that we are not creating good. It's a big challenge to overcome because of that type of stigma as well. HOW ARE ART FORMS DECIDED IN ART THERAPY? Host: Let's talk about some of the art forms that Art for Good provides. Amanda:It's not so much the art form itself that's important in art therapy. A wide range of art mediums can be used. The goal and objective is mental health and mental wellbeing. There are therapeutic elements in the actual art-making process, but if you're talking specifically about art therapy, it's more attuned to emotional wellbeing, mental health and mental wellbeing. A lot of the directives and art-making processes are geared towards that approach. The art therapist would recommend what types of mediums should be introduced and how they should be used. Especially when working with persons with disabilities, we consider their limitations and suitability. Would this aggravate the client, or would it create more calm? That's where knowledge of the art mediums and the client comes into play — understanding what would be helpful rather than harmful. MEETING THE ARTISTS Host: And with that said, you actually brought us some amazing artwork from your clients. Janelle's Artwork Amanda: This one is actually done by Janelle. She's one of the Rare Disorders Society of Singapore beneficiaries who has undergone the art therapy programme. She is bedbound, which means she can't leave the bed, so the type of art she can do has to be more simplified. She wanted to create something on canvas, and she actually created three pieces. What might seem very simple for us can actually be quite difficult and quite a feat for someone like Janelle. This piece uses stamping and stencilling. The way she positioned the elements so that they look like a flower was also very creative on her part. CHLOE'S STORY Amanda: This is Chloe. For her, she did a mixed-media piece using clay fish and an acrylic-painted background. She likes pastel colours and, nowadays, she's really into a water theme. This is one of the more recent works she's created. Chloe has spinal muscular atrophy, where there is muscular degeneration throughout the body, particularly affecting areas such as the legs and spine. She's wheelchair-bound, so a lot of her artworks are small and cute. She does a lot of detail and works on a smaller space. She also does crochet. We managed to get her a project with the National Library Board, which has a section focused on making libraries more accessible to persons with disabilities. They have a mascot called Iris, which is a purple heart. Chloe was commissioned to make 70 purple hearts. Recently, Chloe had an operation on her spine, so she couldn't sit up and do a lot of things. She also had a two-month break from school. One of the things she really got into during that period was crochet. So she was really using art as a way forward for healing, meaning-making and also getting a project to work on. Sometimes what we want to do is empower different individuals by giving them different art projects. This not only builds their portfolio, but also builds their sense of self — their self-concept and self-confidence — so that they can see that they can be more and do more. Amanda: When I first saw Chloe for her art therapy, that was five years ago. She couldn't even hold a pencil properly. A lot of these things also include elements of occupational therapy — having the motivation and desire to be creative and work with your hands. But art-making itself can be really fun and motivating, and that really worked out for Chloe. Chloe's Journey Host: I know you said you start with an eight-session plan for most clients, right? How do you assess whether someone might need more sessions? Chloe has been with you for five years now. Amanda: We actually work on different goals. There are different stages, what we call life stages, where people need different types of support. For Chloe's initial engagement, it was her transition from kindergarten into primary school. There was concern about how she would manage the change of environment and how she felt about it. As school progressed, we continued to support her through that journey and provide emotional support. Her love for art was one of the things that kept her going. I think what worked for Chloe is that because she's in a wheelchair, it's not as accessible for her to move around. Usually, children can go for art classes, dance classes and other enrichment programmes. For her, her choices were more limited. Having the therapist go to her and provide that support made it easier for Chloe to continue with art therapy for a longer period of time. TITUS' STORY Amanda: This art piece is by Titus. Titus is the youngest of three children, all of whom have special needs. Titus has a rare disorder — an immunodeficiency disorder — which means he needs regular treatment because his immunity is low. He recently had appendicitis and was hospitalised for almost a week. He created this piece before his hospitalisation. Titus has a keen interest in music. He loves playing the flute and also plays the piano. One of his favourite pieces is River Flows in You by Yiruma, and he titled this artwork after the piece. The colours and flowing elements were inspired by the music, and he also included music notes from the actual score. So this was a musically inspired piece and one of his favourite works. This painting is also available online for people who would like to support him. The proceeds go directly to the families. We take a small portion to cover delivery and other costs we've incurred, but the majority of the funds go to the families. TURNING ART INTO PRODUCTS Amanda: This sunflower piece is also by Titus. We have different corporates who adopt different projects. They adopted this piece and a token sum was given to Titus. This one was adopted by Acuvue. We also have many people who support artists with disabilities by printing their artwork on different merchandise. For example, we have this artwork by Titus' brother, Lucas. These are blue flowers that he painted for his mum. We turned them into two coasters and a small eco bag, and these are available online. Host: One of them actually felt a very big sense of achievement when he sold his first one. Amanda: Yes. He was actually very sad for a long time, asking, "Why is no one buying my things?" But we can't control who or when people buy things. So when you make a purchase, you're also making one child really happy because they've sold their work. I think it's very empowering for the children, especially because they've already gone through so much. That little achievement can be very empowering. That's also one of the reasons why we decided to do this. It's not so much about creating a money-generating machine, but really about building that sense of empowerment. THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF ART FOR GOOD Host: With all that said, what do you think is the ripple effect Art for Good is creating in the community? Gabriel: I think one of the things is that, because we work with children with rare disorders, we're trying to create a sustainable programme for them. In the past, caregivers may take full care of these children. But if there's a change in caregiver or, eventually, the caregiver is no longer around, how does the child, when they grow up, get sustainable income for themselves? I think we're starting to help through simple things — keeping them paid and providing a platform for them to sell their artwork as a stepping stone. Hopefully, it motivates them to run a business of their own or find partners who can work with them to bring it further. That's where I think we're going. Amanda: For me, when I think about the ripple effect, what comes to mind is that once you help an individual with their mental health, emotional wellbeing and overall wellbeing, they become better able to participate in the community and contribute to society. That creates a ripple effect. If they're able to be in a good headspace and a good space overall, there is a certain wealth that comes with good mental health. It benefits not only the individual, but the group, the community, society and then the world. Looking at it as a bigger ripple effect, we might be very small. We're like that small pebble being thrown into the ocean or river. As long as we help even one individual, that can be a catalyst to make a difference. WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING? Host: We've talked a lot about how you support your beneficiaries. But what keeps you going? Amanda: One of the things that keeps me going and motivates me is seeing how people actually glow and grow from this whole process. You can see when somebody receives that unmet need that they're looking for, there's suddenly a whole change in their demeanour and physical state because their mental state has changed as well. Sometimes, a simple thing can generate such a big change. When you see that in the face of the person you're helping, I think that's something that really motivates me to be part of this — helping people so that they can benefit and help others. It's like you uplifted them so that they can uplift you. Gabriel: For me, I have this motto that I saw when I was very young: "Never look down on someone unless you're helping someone up." I believe in that very strongly. When I was a younger kid, I had school peers who bullied me, and it was another peer who helped me out of it and got me going. So for myself, it's really about helping others. Sometimes I'll get to a wall and I don't know how to get past it. It's very uplifting and encouraging when somebody else comes to pull you up. THE FUTURE OF ART THERAPY Host: It's nice to have seen the art therapy scene grow over the past ten years. What I'm hoping to see is, of course, art therapy becoming more robust in the scene and more accepted as a profession. Rather than being seen as art teachers or someone who provides free art services, I hope it is recognized as a profession that genuinely helps mental health and wellbeing. And of course, you need a community of people to do that. Sometimes it just takes one or two individuals to start something, and hopefully the scene will look brighter and continue to improve, as it has over the past ten years. OUTRO Host: Thank you so much for joining us today on Quiet Ripples. And if you like our content, remember to hit like, share and subscribe. This is once again Art for Good. If you'd like to learn more about them or purchase products made by their beneficiaries, their website and social media handles will be here. That's it from Amanda and Gabriel. Thank you so much for spending so much time with us under this nice, warm weather today. And we'll see you next time!

June 27, 2025 In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, art has the power to heal, empower, and connect. For Chloe Chek, a bright young girl diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 (SMA2), crochet has become more than just a hobby—it’s a lifeline, a source of joy, and a way to share her creativity with others. Chloe has discovered the therapeutic magic of yarn and needle, transforming her challenges into beautiful, handmade creations. Finding Solace in Art Chloe’s journey with crochet began as a simple pastime, but it quickly blossomed into something far more significant. The rhythmic motion of stitching, the vibrant colors of the yarn, and the satisfaction of creating something tangible became a form of therapy for her. Despite the challenges posed by SMA2, crochet has allowed Chloe to express herself freely, build focus, and experience a sense of pride and accomplishment with every completed piece. Chloe is a participant in Art For Good’s art therapy program, where she receives support for her emotional and mental well-being. She is also part of our artist development program, which focuses on empowerment, confidence building, character development, and fostering a positive sense of identity. Chloe’s crochet work has moved beyond a personal hobby to a recognized part of her art portfolio. Chloe is learning to weave her personal experiences and resilience into each piece, turning her hobby into a form of artistic expression. A Heartfelt Collaboration with NLB Chloe’s talent didn’t go unnoticed. In a remarkable opportunity, the National Library Board (NLB) commissioned her to crochet 70 IRIS Hearts—a special project that merged her passion for crafting with a cause close to her heart. Introducing IRIS (Inclusive LibRarIes) IRIS, which stands for “Inclusive LibRarIeS”, is a purple heart icon that represents accessible programmes and services for persons with disabilities and reflects the inclusive offerings available throughout NLB libraries. Persons with disabilities, their caregivers, and the general public are encouraged to engage with IRIS activities to explore and learn more about the accessible services available in the libraries. For Chloe, this project was more than just a commission—it was a chance to contribute to a larger movement of kindness and inclusion. Each heart she crafted became a personal symbol of her dedication, stitched with love, patience, and care. A Testament to Resilience and Creativity Chloe’s story is a testament to the power of art to transcend limitations. Through crochet, she has not only found a therapeutic outlet to navigate the challenges of SMA2, but she’s also brought beauty into the world. Her collaboration with NLB highlights her growing skill and reflects the deep personal meaning woven into each piece of work. This partnership underscores the invaluable role of programs like Art For Good, which provide a nurturing space for individuals like Chloe to thrive. It is through such support that Chloe is able to share her art, not just as a hobbyist, but as an emerging artist with a unique voice. As she continues her artistic journey, Chloe hopes to inspire others facing similar struggles, showing that with passion, dedication, and support, anything is possible—one stitch at a time.

Since 2018, Art For Good uses art to reach out to children from low-income families in one-room rented flats in Toa Payoh (Singapore), hence the name Art Outreach. We provide free art enrichment classes and art excursions to underprivileged children who would otherwise not be able to afford them. We hope to use art to improve the quality of life, promote good mental health and well-being to the less fortunate, starting with the children. We aim bring more awareness to the poverty situation in Singapore through this program. The program is fully supported and funded by Art for Good and by the volunteers who have come to support us. We started the program from making art on picnic mats. We interacted with the children under their blocks and engaged them to make art together and build friendships. Toa Payoh Central Constituency Office gave us a classroom to work in until December 2018. We are currently conducting the classes for the children at Toa Payoh CC Blk 93, Room 05-03, every Wednesday from 6:30-8:30pm. If you would like to volunteer to be part of this program, please contact us. We hope to continue this Art Outreach Program and look for other creative ways to continue to engage these children who thrive in this environment!

June 9, 2019 Art for Good organized an Art Therapy workshop for the children from RDSS (Rare Disorders Society of Singapore) and their siblings at Bukit Batok HomeTeamNS. The children were initially gathered to play laser tag, but it was arranged so that they had an opportunity to experience some creative art expression through art therapy sessions in between their laser tag games. The purpose of the workshop was to assess and observe the children to see who might require art therapy or have potential to develop artistic abilities. Some of the children were able to express themselves well through art, by drawing their experience playing laser tag. This workshop was conducted by a certified art therapist. RDSS (Rare Disorders Society of Singapore) has partnered with Art for Good to provide emotional support to their beneficiaries through Art Therapy. RDSS will sponsor 75% of the cost of art therapy fees. All of our art therapy sessions are home-based, as we understand the difficulties of transportation for some of the families. The session is 1 hour per child at $120 per hour. Families only need to pay $30 per session. This is only applicable for members of RDSS. Transportation and art materials fees are sponsored by Art for Good. If the families would like to get their own art materials for the children to continue art-making on their own, a recommended art material list can be provided upon request. The Art Therapist will provide individual monthly progress reports for the children, which will track their progress and offer relevant recommendations, where needed. If you would like to register for our art therapy sessions, please contact us.

November 24, 2020 For one of our memorable team bonding activities, Art for Good collaborated with the dedicated teachers and staff of Hougang Primary School to explore the sweet art of candy-making. Participants were divided into teams and guided through the process of making lollipops from scratch—from cooking the candy mixture to pouring it into moulds, decorating, and even packaging. Each lollipop came complete with a personalised Christmas wish or motivational message, making them extra special. In just the allotted time, the teams worked creatively and efficiently, producing 80 beautifully crafted candies. But the true joy of the workshop came later—when these lollipops were gifted to children from low-income families during the Christmas Party we organised on 15 December 2020. The activity was not only fun and engaging for the staff but also deeply meaningful, as their efforts directly brought cheer and sweetness to the lives of children in the community.

May 18, 2018 Young cancer patients and their mothers were treated to a musical journey and art experience, jointly organised by British Airways, Tang Tee Khoon Grand Series, the Red Pencil and LOVE, NILS, for the very first time. Held at the Keppel Centre for Art Education at National Gallery Singapore, musicians from the TTK Grand Series took participants through the poetic world of Johannes Brahms’ Clarinet Quintet, providing listeners a range of expressive themes that evoke a sense of introspection and reverie. The participants were then encouraged to externalize their musical imagination into their own artworks based on the unique melodies of the different musical instruments, comprising of the clarinet, first violin, second violin, viola and cello. “I can only imagine how much lighter in weight the children and their mothers feel, from just one hour of music and art,” said Tang Tee Khoon, a violinist. “I’d like to thank everyone who made our event possible for these children and their mothers. I do hope this is the start of what could be possible in the future. Creating magical experiences where we can allow those going through difficulties to forget about their hardships and just enjoy the beauty the world can provide.” The Red Pencil coordinated the presence of an art therapist and art therapy student interns from the LASALLE College of the Arts Management Associate programme to facilitate the art exercise. A range of materials from feathers, buttons, ribbons and more, were provided to allow room for creativity and expression. Founder of Art For Good Amanda Chen, who works with Red Pencil, said: “Arts therapy (Visual Art, Music & Dance) is scientifically proven to have a positive impact on an individual’s physical and mental well-being. The combination of two of these elements, visual-art making and music, will evoke emotions through sensory means, making a unique and special experience for the participants! Thank you Tee Khoon, British Airways and the Red Pencil for giving me the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful event.”

December 8, 2018 Art For Good led a group of youths in an exciting Art Jam session, organized by Manchester Worldwide (South East Asia) as part of its annual CSR outreach programme. The event was aimed to empower youth and saw two alumni of the university, Andrea Abatte and Willard Ng, sharing their different journeys toward fulfilling their dreams. The message to the youths was to “Follow Your Dreams”. What ensued next was great fun between the youth and alumni of the University, who formed pairs to co-create unique pieces of artwork aimed at expressing their dreams. Through our online shop, we invited the alumni and the public to EMPOWER A YOUTH today through our charity sales. Each artwork is priced at $100 (except for the 3 most popular art pieces priced at $120 each) and the total proceeds of all artworks sold would be donated to the Youth from the Expedition Agape (EA) programme. The Expedition Agape (EA) is a programme by the Lakeside Family Services that transforms and empowers the lives of teenagers through intentional mentoring by adult volunteers and a structured programme over a period of 6 months to develop the participants as “Leaders in Action”. More info can be found at www.expeditionagape.org. Each artwork sold will fund the programme and educational materials for ONE youth participant of the Expedition Agape for 2 sessions (or over 2 weeks).