Step into an intimate world where memories intertwine with art, and see the stories unfold in vibrant collages.
“The Sound of PortrAIts” is a collaboration between JCH Art Therapist Lee Sze-Chin and his Art Collective, Kronoscapes, together with Sound Designers, Artwave Studio. Co-created over a series of art-making sessions and recorded interviews with six patients and caregivers from JCH’s dementia ward, the artworks blend the power of oral storytelling with the creative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), immersing visitors in the poignant narratives of patients as they share their stories through their own voices and their self-portraits.
The project takes on a person-centric approach and empowers participants to share memories, unveiling the persons behind the patients. The artworks give a voice to the patients, as well as the selfless caregivers among us. Leveraging creativity and technology, the art-driven exploration focuses on the individuality of the patients and each completed artwork is a tribute to the individual’s identity and life story.
Kampong Camaraderie & Caring Connections: Mr Toh's Life Story
Listen to his story here
Mr Toh shared memories from his youth of reading and writing with friends in the kampong, highlighting his love for learning. He has a genuine empathy and concern for others. His occupational therapist's observations paint a picture of a man who naturally creates connections and fosters a sense of community. He was often seen enjoying coffee with his hospital companions. Mr Toh's conversations highlight his eagerness to learn and his compassionate spirit, encouraging us to find inspiration in his kindness and humility.
From Dawn till Dusk: Mdm Yee’s Life Rooted in the Land
Listen to her story here
Mdm Yee recounted her vegetable farming days in the 1970s. The AI-generated image from her collage paints a vivid picture of her life on the farm, where she worked alongside her husband to cultivate a variety of vegetables, including brinjal. Mdm Yee shared stories of her challenges and joys of farming, and how her early mornings and connection to the land have shaped her life.
Smiling Through the Years: Mr Phua's Timeless Wisdom
Listen to his story here
Instantly recognisable in the ward with his bandana, Mr Phua's cheerful spirit shone through as he reminisced about his acng days and his role in the movie “I Not Stupid”. When putting together his self-portrait through collage, he remarked with a twinkle in his eye that his bandana makes him look younger.
During the conversations about his experiences, Mr. Phua shared a valuable message beyond the silver screen: the importance of maintaining fitness through regular exercise. We were presented with facets of Mr. Phua's enduring optimism and his timeless message of health and well-being.
Collages of Love and Pride: A Tribute to Mr Ong's Military Service
Listen to his story here
Mrs Ong shared her cherished memories of her husband with us. Snippets of her recorded conversations provided a personal and inmate connection to her recollections. Through her collages and stories, we caught glimpses of her deep affection for her husband, showcasing their steadfast love and the respect she has for her military spouse.
One of her proudest memories is a powerful image of him standing tall in the parade square, embodying his leadership and dedication to the military.
Embracing Life's Simple Joys: An Afternoon with Mdm Chu
Listen to her story here
Mdm Chu recalled captivating anecdotes from her life journey, laced with her unique blend of humour and wisdom.
She recounted the significant moments in her life, including a memorable bicycle ride to work for a Caucasian family. Her granddaughter also shared cherished memories in her collage, painting a vivid picture of Mdm Chu's loving care and culinary talents.
Mdm Chu’s light-hearted spirit embodies resilience and optimism, and inspires others to have a renewed appreciation for the beauty of everyday moments, even in the face of challenges.
Mdm Liew’s narrative offers a heartwarming glimpse into her life's journey, traversing the landscapes of China, Malaysia, and Singapore. Her treasured memories include the singing of Hakka folk and mountain songs of her youth; evoking a sense of belonging and connection to her heritage.
Bursting with colour, her collages capture one of many simple pleasures of a life well-lived – a joyful outing with friends in the lush greenery of the forest.
Mdm Liew’s message is clear and uplifting – be happy in all circumstances. She reminds us to cherish the moments of joy that surround us.
Learn the benefits of music therapy and gain useful techniques in using music and movement to improve the mood and support the emotional well-being of your loved ones especially the seniors at home. Get tips on choosing the right music, singing, rhythms and movement in a 3-part workshop and demos by Fontane Liang, music therapist, Jurong Community Hospital. The demo was conducted with a senior living with dementia.
Artist: Catherine Chong
Year: 2019
Medium: Fabric collage
Co-created with:
Sew Into it, Fashion Makerspace, Fashion Pulpit, Alzheimer's Disease Association New Horizon Centre (Jurong Point), Alzheimer's Disease Association New Horizon Centre (Bukit Batok), Montessori for Dementia Care, SAGE Counselling Centre, Be Kind SG, Mustard Tree, Holy Innocents' Primary School , Ai Tong School, Grace Orchard School, Singapore Cancer Society and Taman Jurong Active Ageing Sewing Circle.
"Handmade Heartmade" features over 180 unique sensory mats, lovingly hand-sewn by the community for persons with dementia. The colourful and interactive work of art were selected from over 700 mats contributed to the community sewing project facilitated by Singaporean artist, Catherine Chong over a span of 6 months. Participants from all walks of life, from sewing enthusiasts to students, staff, individuals and even seniors with dementia came together to create these masterpieces of love.
Made from an array of fabrics, textures and different sensorial objects, these sensory mats provide a stimulating and relaxing activity for persons with dementia and have been shown to help reduce agitation and restlessness. The mats are also suitable for persons with autism.
Each piece tells a story of personal experiences and inspiration, capturing the elaborate thought-processes behind from the choice of colours, to the fabric and materials suitable for persons with dementia. Motifs of nature and adorable characters, formed and embellished with everyday objects like shoe laces, buttons and strings were creatively stitched and transformed into attractive and fun works of art that encourages engagement. The heartfelt contributions from the participants were sewn into sensory blankets and presented to our patients with dementia in our hospitals and other organisations that can benefit from the sensory mats.
Watch "Handmade Heartmade" video here! Click here to go back
