SINGAPORE: The younger generation no longer hesitates to pursue their dreams in the local arts industry.
In fact, they equip themselves by taking up education in the arts at local arts institutions that are now offering various opportunities to develop their potential, as well as hone their talent in various artistic fields.
This exciting development is being further spurred by the presence of international firms that have made Singapore their base in this region.
Demand for young talents is also being encouraged by an increase in local companies getting involved in the arts industry.
The rapidly developing digital world provides another platform for them to be creative.
Muhamad Mirza Ja'afar, 24, a final year student of BA(Hons) Animation Art at LASALLE College of the Arts, says: "I feel that for young people like me, this is the time to try out this field as there are many schools specialising in the arts. Apart from that, there are also many local companies hiring designers or animators".
Muhamad Mirza, who has been interested in animation since he was young, chose to further his studies to do a bachelor's degree after getting a diploma from the same institution.
Mirza is now busy preparing his final year project in a team with two other students, an animated short film entitled: Big Top Dreams.
"I can offer my own unique perspective as Singapore is a cosmopolitan country. Here, I mingle with friends from many countries such as Japan, India or France. Through the film I am producing, I get to interact with them, learn their cultures, and from there, it widens my experience," says Mirza.
Now, there are about 2,600 students in LASALLE, and in 2015, 93% of LASALLE graduates in full-time permanent employment received job offers within three months after they finished their studies.
Sulistriawati Awalluden, 22, is one student who is currently pursuing her dream to make a mark in the field of fashion, specialising in 'Muslimah' fashion.
"Education at LASALLE adds value and brings many benefits. Young people who wish to study at LASALLE must be motivated and passionate," says Sulistriawati, a final year BA(Hons) Fashion Design and Textiles student.
She adds, "In joining ideas, collaborating and sharing expertise, students here can unearth interesting ideas."
Sulistriawati's interest in fashion began as a child when she watched her mother take orders to sew clothes.
Developments in the arts industry are very encouraging, as well as rapidly expanding.
New courses that have just been introduced, like the MA Design at LASALLE, have succeeded in attracting a lot of applications. The first batch of the MA Design comprises 16 individuals this year.
Nur Hidayah Abu Bakar, Dean of the Faculty of Design at LASALLE College of the Arts, says: "At LASALLE, we are continuously enhancing and updating our curriculum in accordance to the Singapore context, as well as global trends. So the opportunities that we provide here are closely tied to developments in the industry."
Read the full article on Mediacorp Berita.
