Not Just a Little Red Dot: Chinatown

• Acrylic on canvas
• 60cm x 75cm

The origins of Singapore’s Chinatown can be traced back to 1822, when the ‘Chinese Kampong’ became home to many Chinese immigrants, and later a transit point for coolies going to Malaya. Chinatown is steeped in rich history of some of Singapore’s earliest pioneers and traditional architecture. With the urban renewal of the area, Chinatown is now a juxtaposition of the old world with the new. 

The lanterns that light up Chinatown during the Chinese New Year period gives the area an extra glow, and symbolises prosperity and good fortune. It is also the inspiration behind this artwork, with the kaleidoscopic colour accents and Chinese character ‘福’ representing the hopes and dreams of early Chinese immigrants who made their way to Singapore.

About the ‘Not Just a Little Red Dot’ collection

When someone mentions 'Singapore', what comes to mind? Despite its small land footprint, Singapore has transformed into one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. Over the years, iconic symbols and landmarks were created to represent Singapore in the world.

Created in Kelly's signature contemporary style, each artwork in the ‘Not Just a Little Red Dot’ collection is inspired by a national symbol or landmark in Singapore's history. The year when the symbol/landmark was created/completed or the name of the location is 'stamped' on the artwork, marking its significance.