April Reflections: Unveiling Identity Through Art

I had the privilege earlier this month to be invited to an art exhibition of this year’s IB graduating year group at my alma mater. The theme was identity.

I had no expectations. I was curious about the art curriculum because art was a subject I never had the chance to pursue after lower secondary, having focused heavily on the sciences. In some ways, I think I wanted to relive some of my adolescent years through seeing their creations.

First and foremost, the quality and standard of the artwork were absolutely top-class—how I wish I had pursued my “talents” in art. (Truly, I think I did have some talent as a teenager.)

But what really struck me was how each student had opened up their hearts and delved deep to discover their own true identity. One shared her inner struggle between leaving behind what feels safe—the known secondary school environment, the family home—and moving on as an individual to venture into unknown waters as a young adult. Another had embraced her Chinese cultural values as the foundation of her identity, creating stunning Chinese-inspired tailored pieces that reflected her childhood memories and deep bond with her mother.

As I read their narratives, I could not help but swallow the tears welling up in my eyes. In truth, at age 17 or 18, you believe that the world is your oyster, and that once you leave school, you will somehow, miraculously, find your true self.

This path of self-discovery is one that continues well beyond our twenties, thirties, even forties. It was only during the bleak COVID years that I realised what my true calling and passion in life were. For me to be truly happy, I had to embrace that I was different, and that the path I had chosen was true to myself.

I guess what I am trying to say is, I love that these girls are following their dreams.  This is what JESSICA is about: empowering young people, inspiring young women to persevere, pursue their passions, and make a positive impact to the world we live in.

Thank you, Mengyang, for inspiring me.