Then, now.

• Main Author: Lee, Benjamin Lian Hao.
• Other Authors: Oh Soon-Hwa
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2013
• Subjects: DRNTU::Visual arts and music::Photography::Techniques
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/52406
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

“Then, Now” is a multi-channel video art project that aims at revealing the mutli-faceted nature of national identity in Singapore. Singapore as envisioned in the 1960s was remarkably different from today, brimming with nationalistic pride. However, in the name of economic progress, Singapore has inevitably embraced capitalism and shook off its nationalistic overcoat. In less than a century, Singapore has transformed itself from a kampong slum into a city-state boasting great wealth. The artist is intrigued at what costs did it take to procure this material wealth and if such material wealth translates to a cohesive national identity. The video piece juxtaposes contemporary culture with the nationalistic fervor of the 1960s, as the artist reveal the complexity in the conception of Singapore as a nation-state.