WDNNE Art Exhibition To Promote Visual Arts In Singapore

Written By Tan Wen Hui, Joyce


A soft-spoken, well-mannared gentleman with a compelling passion for the arts, 22 year-old Mr. Jason Lee Jia Sheng appears to be a harmless dormouse to any individual.

Yet, what lined the walls of his exhibition space at his first collaborative art exhibition, 'We Don't Need No Education' (WDNNE) together with four other art enthusiasts, were intriguing, still works of conceptual photography which strongly revolves around the subject of controversy.

A libertarian activist who strongly embraces the term 'Freedom Of Expression' has led Mr. Lee on his quest to produce provocative artworks which piques his viewers' attention in an attempt to spur their notions to dwell on the discourse of his artworks, which has strong messages in relation to social issues.

"Art has to be provocative and is also a good medium to convey your inner-most thoughts and feelings to others in a creative manner." Commented the youth on his two sets of neatly framed artworks, which was made distinctive for its clean execution.

His two sets of works which are entitled 'Blood Money' and 'Learned Helplessness To The World', are works in which Jason previously worked on while undertaking his diploma studies in Visual Communications (Photography Design) at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) from July 2003 - 2006.

These works were done as part of his final year project, was once placed on public exhibition during his graduation show last March.

WDNNE marks Mr. Lee's very first art exhibition since his graduation.

Organized by youth entrepreneur Miss Zain Ismail, WDNNE is an inaugural mini arts exhibition which showcases the best works of five different artists, both locally and internationally.

During the exhibition's opening evening, some 200 people attended the opening ceremony, coupled with a pair of buskers who displayed a couple of their magic tricks to hike up the sophisticated atmosphere.

Held at the La Libreria Gallery, located above Bugis Village, WDNNE aims to promote both the Visual Arts and arts appreciation in Singapore and also, showcase the talents of the five young budding artists.

Artworks are grouped into three different Visual Arts categories - Photography, Illustration and Painting and are also set for sale to the public between SGD 110 - 2,000 per artwork.

Mr. Lee is currently serving his two years of national service and is also simultaneously working on various art projects to keep himself updated while under government service.

He hopes to either find a well respected job in the visual arts industry or pursue an arts related degree course.

"Meanwhile, I would proceed to advance my quest to produce more artworks based on social issues which impacts us, most. It can arise from anywhere in this vast continent, so as long they don't pose as a threat to our national ideologies. That's illegal!"

For those interested to view Mr Lee's portfolio, please go to :-
www.geocities.com/leejiasheng.