Chong Pei En

Theme: Bridge of Hope

Special Mention, Open Category, 2021

Artist statement:

Bloom of Hope is a pen drawing that illustrates the recipient (right) receiving the organs from the deceased donor's family (left). It portrays how the deceased donor's deeds live on after death. To me, flowers are often given as a means to symbolise human emotions and spirits. Each flower embodies a special and unique sentiment. Roses signify the unconditional love donors have for another being though they might not be bonded by blood. Their thorns represent the juxtaposition between pain felt by the donor families and their desire to save a life in addition to imparting hope for survival. Also, the only option left to sustain their loved ones' life is to keep a part of them alive in someone else's bodies. Alstroemerias symbolise love, strength, devotion, and above all, mutual support between the individuals and families in parallel situations in search of hope. There are two alstroemerias in this artwork, one opened and one closed. Similar to how the closed alstroemeria is awaiting its time to bloom, the recipient is waiting for the right time to have a donor for hope to live a brand new life. Daisies symbolise hope and renewal. It is telling the recipients, “Don’t give up and go lead a brand new life. To all the recipients out there waiting for an organ, the bridge of hope will come soon. STAY STRONG!

About the Artist

Chong Pei En, 21