Divergence

You’re in the midst of a career switch, what pushed you to pursue a different path?
I currently work in marketing for a branding agency, but I’m making a move to public relations in the fashion industry.

I used to work in fashion, so I’m clear on what I want and what I don’t want when it comes to the industry. Personally, I’ve always navigated to small companies instead of bigger luxury brands because it’s important that the company I join has a good culture and aligns with my values, even if they’re not as high-paying. As such, it’s not easy finding a fashion brand in Singapore that I like, so I’m glad to be going back to pursuing something I love.

When did you start becoming interested in fashion?
Since young, I was influenced by my mum, who dresses very well even to this day. I remember going through her clothes and makeup as a kid and trying them on. Despite refusing to wear the clothes she picked out for me when I was younger, I look back at old photos now and find that her style is not bad leh (laughs).

Do you have a favourite clothing brand?
I’m not sure why but I’m really into Thai brands at the moment, so I’ve been visiting Thailand a lot. My dress, for one, is from the brand Tha Homemade—I love that all their pieces are hand-dyed and hand-printed.

In fact, I’d recommend a local market in Chiang Mai called Baan Kang Wat. The whole place is full of cool crafters and some of them even hold workshops on-the-spot!

How did you find out about Singapore Art Week 2023?
I often try to check out any art exhibitions or events happening in the area because, to be honest, there’s only so much to do in Singapore lah. Actually, a friend of mine has a work displayed in the Singapore Art Museum, which is why I came down to take a look. Besides, I quite enjoyed the previous Art Week.

I’m not an artist myself, but I’m surrounded by many creative people—my sister is a theatre practitioner and my boyfriend is a musician—so it’s hard not to be involved in the scene and appreciate the art.

Tell us about an artwork that has stuck with you.
I was recently amazed by Stream of Memory, a production by Papermoon Puppet Theatre. I’ve only watched them online prior, so when they came to Singapore I knew I had to go.

It was beautiful! I love how they allowed the audience to interact with the puppets too. On top of the great show and cast, the music especially touched me; I did some research on the composer, Yennu Ariendra, and found that he does traditional compositions that are really interesting.

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P.S. Enjoy free admission to the Singapore Biennale 2022 at Tanjong Pagar Distripark till 19th March 2023—your last chance to do so!