Cover Pamela Tan is a Malaysian architectural designer and the founder of Poh Sin Studio (illustration by Raphael Quiason)
Pamela Tan is a Malaysian architectural designer and the founder of Poh Sin Studio (illustration by Raphael Quiason)
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Malaysian architectural designer Pamela Tan talks about her inspiring, challenging, and comforting installations and their contribution to public spaces
As an artist and architectural designer, I’ve come to understand that public art is not merely decorative; it is profoundly transformative for both spaces and individuals. Each installation I create or participate in offers a unique lens through which to view our daily environments, turning them into canvases that inspire, challenge, and comfort.
Consider “Sunnyside Up” at MRT Pasar Seni in Kuala Lumpur—a vibrant intervention in a bustling transit hub. Here, I chose yellow, a color that evokes happiness and energy, to transform an underused staircase into a sunlit pathway. This installation was designed to disrupt the mundane commute by injecting a moment of unexpected joy and beauty, encouraging a connection with the space that goes beyond mere functionality.
Read more: Unveiling creativity: Pamela Tan's award-winning fusion of art, architecture and design
"Sunnyside Up" greets commuters at the MRT Pasar Seni station in Kuala Lumpur
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In the serene setting of Thomson Hospital, my piece “Lend Me Your Wings I Pray” explores the healing power of art. Drawing on the symbolic tranquility of butterflies, this installation shifts in color and form depending on the viewer’s perspective. It’s a gentle reminder of hope and renewal, vital in a place where such sentiments are much needed.
“Tatu” offers a deeper communal experience, drawing on the rich cultural diversity of Malaysia. This installation serves as a reflective sanctuary where visitors are immersed in a room of light and shadow derived from Malaysia’s diverse cultural motifs. Here, art acts as a dialogue among diverse voices, inviting each visitor to see their reflection within a broader narrative.
"Lend Me Your Wings I Pray" at Thomson Hospital explores the healing power of art (photo by David Yeow, courtesy of Poh Sin Studio)
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The transformation of the badminton courts at Sri Tioman 1 through a community-driven mural project exemplifies how art can foster community resilience. This initiative not only revitalized a neglected space but also reinforced social bonds and collective pride. Engaging residents in the creation of the mural promoted a shared sense of purpose and ownership, illustrating how collaborative art projects can strengthen community ties and enhance emotional health.
The murals at the badminton courts at Sri Tioman 1 (photo by Phyon Lam; courtesy of Poh Sin Studio)
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Each project underscores a broader truth: art in public spaces serves as a catalyst for urban renewal and psychological well-being. It provides not just aesthetic enhancement but also emotional and social uplift, nurturing the mental landscapes of those who engage with it. As cities grow and evolve, integrating thoughtful, provocative, and healing art into public spaces is crucial. It enriches our urban environments, making them more livable and emotionally resonant.
Through my work, I aim to demonstrate that art is essential in shaping not only our physical but also our emotional landscapes. It invites us to pause, reflect, and connect—transforming our interactions with the city into experiences that are as enriching as they are engaging. This is the power of public art, and this is my take on its role in our lives.
An Asia’s Most Influential honouree from Malaysia, Pamela Tan is an architectural designer whose diverse and award-winning portfolio ranges from large-scale murals to household objects and jewellery. Tan is an advocate for public art and culture in urban environments, and is committed to making art a part of our daily lives.
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Credits
Images: Courtesy of Poh Sin Studio
Illustration: Raphael Quiason
