Masterpieces from Memories

by Faith C. Lai

Amidst a row of hardware retailers, construction work sites, and electrical manufacturers, a sunlit two-storey conservation shophouse along Jalan Besar provides pedestrians a welcome surprise. Walking in, one is first embraced with warm, bright colours. The colours then take on the form of attractive geometric patterns, which, in turn (and if one recognises the cultural associations), morph into evocative images familiar to the everyday Singaporean.

It seems surprising, at first, that two designers with rather distinct styles and product offerings would share a common workspace, let alone collaborate.

However, a conversation with Mike and Eugene immediately reveals that their creations are fundamentally not as different as one may assume. Both Singaporean, the two consider their national identity a cornerstone of their work. Eugene’s grille designs originate from a desire to revive the traditional art of metalsmithing — one which can only be seen in select ‘old towns’ such as Tiong Bahru today.

Through his perspective as a designer, Mike sees Singapore as a country rich with sources of inspiration. It is a talent of Mike’s, Eugene volunteers, to identify the common elements that seems to evoke a sense of familiarity and the Singapore identity. “For example, the otter family”, he says, drawing my attention to an illustrated otter tucked within a beautiful lampshade design. “Oh, of course.” I croon. And then we all chuckle, for I have proven the point perfectly.

“When you’re fully connected to where you come from, whatever you create, even if people don’t really know anything about the place you come from, they will see that connected-ness,” Mike suggests. In all hopes, Onlewo’s success will be reflected in the wider design industry in Singapore. Eugene expresses his confidence in this sentiment. “Singapore can stand on its own as a design centre,” he says.

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