The coronavirus pandemic has shaken the world, taken over a million lives worldwide and crippled economies. And in the midst of a trying year for most people, two friends who call Singapore home, have come together in hopes of supporting the vulnerable in our local communities.

Rouge, art for a cause

Aditi Sharma and Hanming Wang are the organisers of Rouge, a charity fundraising campaign that comes in time for the season of gifting. Featuring beautiful artworks that celebrate travels, food and all the good things in life, art-lovers can purchase original art pieces for their own homes or as gifts to loved ones.

Local artist and illustrator Hanming shared with TheHomeGround Asia, “All the artworks in the collection have vibrant colors. They celebrate life and the joy of everyday living. Beyond the small value of donation we will raise from the art sale, we also hope to tell stories, spark conversations and raise awareness about these causes that matter to us.”

Inspired artwork that’s one of a kind

This fundraiser, which launches today and will run until 15 December, showcases artwork from Hanming’s original collection.

Pieces for purchase include Postcard from Gion, Kyoto, which uses watercolour and pencil, drawn on location in Japan “when the autumn leaves were just turning red”, and Happy Holidays, a 9 by 12 inch artwork that was “inspired by the cozy winter holidays spent in colder climates”.

Other pieces capture still moments in everyday life, places of interests around the world like the Colosseum in Rome and Alhambra in Granada, and Singapore’s food and heritage. The collection is available online, with some artworks already sold out on launch day.

Buy art and make a difference

For the duo who come from the tech industry but have a deep passion for the arts, the impetus for the fundraiser is simple — to support causes that matter: sustainability of local art, feeding communities dealing with food insecurity and empowerment of vulnerable women.

So they’ve partnered with local non-profits to bring greater well-being and a sense of security to the communities currently in most need. These organisations are doing good work in their respective fields, making a real difference to those impacted the most by this global pandemic.

Art Outreach

Art Outreach uses art to expose students and extend their access to the humanities, and offers engaging public and awards programs that support emerging artists and curators.

Aidha

Aidha is passionate about changing the lives of foreign domestic workers and other low-income women by providing them with the skills and confidence to save, invest and start businesses of their own.

Food from the Heart

Food from the Heart is devoted to sustainably alleviating hunger through efficient distribution of food and making a significant impact in food waste reduction. It helps thousands of lives each year by garnering support to fight hunger and bring joy through core programmes.

Uplifting local communities

Hanming adds, “During the lockdown, many of us reflected on our lives, our priorities, and the things we took for granted. The pandemic has been especially tough for many communities around us. We hope to play our small part in supporting these local communities in Singapore and uplift the spirit.”

All artworks are one of a kind and range from S$35 to S$120 with 100% of net proceeds going directly to the any of the three charity partners of the patrons’ choice. There’s also an option to add a simple frame for Singapore-based patrons so the piece arrives ready to hang.

View the collection here.

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