Re'cole Chua

Theme: Making a difference that endures across time

Merit, School Category, 2024

Artist statement:

In my artwork, I explore the beginning of a patient’s journey in life after her heart transplant. The new heart is symbolised by a girl with pink hair portrayed as the patient's friend. Drawing on the theme of 'The Red String of Fate' from Chinese mythology, I emphasise the connection between the two characters, as if they were soulmates. The design, featuring one girl with a heart and the other with exposed ribs, signifies their essential bond and mutual reliance. The background flower, Rain Lily, symbolises rebirth and new beginnings, echoing the theme of the patient's journey. Along with the photos of their milestones, it shows the eventual acceptance and 'friendship' with her heart. The Goldenrod Flowers symbolise her growth and resilience in her life’s progress. Overall, the painting illustrates the gradual acceptance and integration of the heart into the patient's life as she matures into an adult.

About the Artist

Re'cole Chua, 15
Mayflower Secondary School