Surely you have seen the Seeds by Han Soi Por. These large kernels rest in the grounds of the National Museum. These sandstone sculptures were created by Han Sai Por in 2006. They are testaments to her vision and skill.
Han Sai Por was born in Singapore during the Japanese occupation. This was on 19 July 1943. Growing up in poverty gave her a unique appreciation for nature. She made sand figurines on the beach as a child.
Han’s journey to becoming a sculptor was not straightforward. She initially worked as a teacher. Later she pursued art studies in the United Kingdom. She studied at East Ham College of Art and Wolverhampton College of Art. Han supported herself through various jobs. She worked as a cook and a hotel maid.
Han Sai Por returned to Singapore and taught art. She taught at Nanyang Girls’ High School. She also lectured at NAFA and LASALLE-SIA College of the Arts. In 1997, she became a full-time sculptor.
Seeds reflects Han Sai Por’s interest in organic forms. The sandstone used to carve Seeds was excavated from Fort Canning Hill. This happened during the National Museum’s redevelopment. The sculptures embody the essence of nature. They also show the impact of history.
Han Sai Por’s sculptures can be found worldwide. Her works are in Japan and Malaysia. They are also in Washington D.C. In Singapore, her sculptures are at Capital Tower and the Esplanade. You can also find them at Changi Airport Terminal 3.
Han was the founding President of the Sculpture Society Singapore. She was also an artist in residence at Fort Canning Park. There, she created sculptures from tembusu tree trunks.
Han Sai Por has received numerous awards. She received the Cultural Medallion for Art in 1995. She also won awards in India and China.
Han sees her sculptures as having an inner life. She prefers using granite and marble. She believes stone expresses the significance of life. The Seeds by Han Sai Por invite us to reflect on nature. They encourage us to see the beauty in simplicity. Han’s art reminds us of the importance of our connection to the earth.