It’s that time of year again in Singapore when national pride is in full force with red and white flags fluttering in the wind and lively events taking place all around the city.

I’ve always loved National Day here not only for the fun fireworks displays and spirited parades but also for the fact that it reminds us of how far this small city-state has come in such a short period of time.

For those of you who are not aware of Singapore’s colourful history, this diamond-shaped island on the southernmost tip of continental Asia has been occupied over the centuries by the Malacca Sultanate, Majapahit Empire, Portugal, Britain, Japan and finally Malaysia until August 9, 1965, when Singapore became an independent republic.

At the time of Singapore’s independence, the country was facing a myriad of problems including housing, education and employment woes. However, a brilliant modernization programme turned everything around and by the 1990’s Singapore was one of the wealthiest nations on the planet. This National Day, Singaporeans have every reason to celebrate their success as an incredibly prosperous, progressive and cosmopolitan nation.

Come August 9th, Singapore will be bursting at the seams with revellers enjoying events like the National Day Parade, which will take place at the new National Stadium and will feature exciting aerial shows, 3D projection displays and multi-cultural performances. There will also be local bands playing at Esplanade and Gardens by the Bay, and interesting historical exhibits at various locations like the Kallang Wave Mall and Singapore Discovery Centre.

And of course, the free fireworks displays in the evening at Marina Bay are definitely not to be missed! If you’re looking for some great spots to soak up all the pyrotechnics, head to the ArtScience Museum for great views of the fireworks exploding behind the Singapore Flyer, or the TanjongRhu Promenade for front row seats. For those who want to avoid the crowds, Faber Peak is a much more peaceful vantage point.

The theme of this year’s National Day is ‘Building Our Singapore of Tomorrow’, which invites Singaporeans to look to the future and think about how to move forward together to create an even better nation. The theme also celebrates the diverse mix of people and cultures that call Singapore home, and how each and every person contributes to the greater whole.

While I’m definitely all for looking ahead to the next chapter, I also believe that Bob Marley had it right when he sang, “In this bright future, you can’t forget your past.” I think it’s important to celebrate the past, present and the future, which is exactly what I try to represent in my Singapore Landmark Collection.

In this collection of paintings, you will find a mix historical landmarks and modern architectural marvels that showcase Singapore as it was, as it is and where it is going. From the futuristic Lotus Flower Building at the ArtScience Centre to the grand facade of the Fullerton Hotel, these original paintings and limited edition prints are great gifts or keepsakes that are sure to spark sentiment and national pride.

HAPPY 51st BIRTHDAY SINGAPORE!

“Which one will match best your office or home wall? Comment your favorite below!”