Professor Howard Hunter, President, Singapore Management University (SMU),
Professor Tan Chin Tiong, SMU Deputy President and Provost,
Professor Arthur Lim,
Faculty, staff and students of SMU,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Good evening. I am happy to be here to open Professor Arthur Lim’s art exhibition, entitled “Arthur’s Socio-Political Art”. Arthur is a man of many talents – an eye surgeon of international repute, educator, medical author, administrator, fundraiser, sportsman, prolific art collector and last but not least, a respected artist. Today’s exhibition is a long awaited, rare showcase of 32 of Arthur’s works, since his last exhibition a decade ago in Paris.

2 First, Arthur’s works embody his commentaries and observations of Singapore’s social and political developments spanning two decades. You will see works such Owl, Sterile City, Generation Gap and Caning as well as portraits of Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew and the late David Marshall. While Arthur’s works seem controversial to some, I would say that they are thought-provoking and provide keen insights into the evolution of Singapore’s political and social landscape. He has captured his unique views on Singapore’s history through acrylic and oil.

3 I am happy that SMU decided to present Arthur’s works. Such support is critical to promote cultural philanthropy and strengthen individual and community engagement in arts and culture here. SMU has also been a valuable supporter of national arts events such as the inaugural Singapore Biennale in 2006 and the Singapore Arts Show in 2005 and 2007. SMU has undertaken several efforts to promote the arts. Just last month, it staged its annual Arts Festival, presenting performances and two quirky, yet well thought-out and critical visual art exhibitions by both local artists and their students.

4 This exhibition of Arthur’s works is not merely about appreciating good art. More importantly, all of us will find a connection with the artworks, whether emotional, intellectual or otherwise.

5 In closing, I would like to congratulate Arthur on his exhibition and also SMU, for staging it. Happy viewing.