2023 Honourable Mention, Primary Category: 'Irresistible' by Cheung Yui Sam Isabel
I chose Esther Tay, a clothing designer who was the first to export a Singaporean brand to Japan. The clothes she designs reflect Southeast Asian ethnicities, and are loose, comfortable and perfect for regular wear.
Esther Tay’s lines of clothing were one of the first to go international, so I used the Singapore Esplanade as part of the backdrop and painted it in the colours of the earth to signify internationalism. Orchids surround her to represent Singapore. In the background is the fabric pattern she designed, like waves expressing that Singapore design is going international.
I admire Esther Tay’s strength and determination in following her dreams of becoming a designer. Despite facing multiple challenges, she never gave up and did not let these setbacks discourage her from her path to success.