Ma Iris; Li Sijin

Theme: Alternate Perspectives

Artist statement:

This artwork explores the perspective of the family and friends of the recipient portraying the donors as guardian angels whose generosity profoundly transforms the lives of others. The flowing golden blood imagery is inspired by the Japanese art of kintsugi, where gold is used to mend broken pottery. In this piece, the gold symbolises the donor's gift of life visually representing healing, restoration and the enduring connection between donor and recipient that cannot easily be severed. The angelic figure behind the recipient embodies the donor whose sacrifice and compassion sustains and heals the individual floating in the foreground. The prominent heart within the angel symbolises the immense selflessness and altruism associated with organ donation, the willingness to give part of oneself to save another person. The donor, is intentionally depicted as an ethereal otherworldly presence to reflect the reality that many recipients never meet or directly know their donors. Despite this physical distance, a deep emotional bond remains, rooted in gratitude, hope and the profound impact of the donors' act of kindness. The yellow colours used in the recipients' colour palette symbolise hope, renewal and optimism, representing the light and possibility that organ donation brings into the lives of recipients.

About the Artist

Ma Iris; Li Sijin, 16
Nanyang Girls' High School