bittersweet

About

The sea: an iconic, almost universal familiarity, but not all seas are born equal. This particular view from East Coast Park has a special place in Hwee Chieh’s heart. Since she was little, it has always been a family affair to appreciate nature’s embrace. Among the plentiful wonders that nature can offer, none comes close to East Coast Park’s significance, as it is the birthplace of many fond memories with her dad, mum, elder brother and sisters.

What was once a place of bliss and delight, changed when her father suddenly passed 2 years ago. For months, memories of this once beautiful place reminded her only of anguish, pain and regret, to the point where avoidance might be necessary.

Now, this painting is her attempt at recovery, a rebellious fight against avoidance. To face the demons that reside within, even if only through a brush. By creating this piece, Hwee Chieh attempts to go back in time to a place of jubilation, however impossible.

Perhaps, things would never be the same. East Coast Park will no longer be a place of pure bliss and joy. But it can be a place of bittersweet nostalgia, a poignant reminder of how precious life is. 

The frightening impermanence of our lives is often hard to accept. It is comforting to avoid and escape. But if we face it square, who knows what we might find?

—written by Zack Chua