The Singapore campus of James Cook University (JCU) has received the donation of an artwork — titled Rose Garden — created by Australia-based interdisciplinary artist Hiromi Tango. An event unveiling the donation took place on 31 August 2022 at the Singapore campus. The donation of artwork comes from Guy and Henny Scott, the parents of JCU, Singapore Psychology alumnus Maddy Scott who is now practicing in Melbourne. Guy Scott is also former President of AustCham.

The aim of the donation, which will be installed in the Psychology Clinic of the Singapore campus, is to spark a meaningful dialogue on migration, identity and mental health amongst viewers.

In a statement, the artist Hiromi Tango says, “Rose Garden recalls a period in my life when I was trying very hard to be the perfect Australian wife and mother, caught between two worlds of my traditional upbringing in regional Japan, and things that seemed to signify a good woman in Australia.”

“My hope is that women and girls from all backgrounds and cultures can feel free to realise their potential, unencumbered by the confines and expectations placed on women.”

The renowned artist collaborated with Dr Emma Burrow of the Florey Institute for the launch of Hiromi Tango’s installations in the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay, entitled ‘MENTAL: Colours of Wellbeing’. The installation represents a ‘living lab’ that engages the public on mental health issues through art. This living lab artwork explores how fun, laughter and play can encourage the levels of physical activity needed to boost our mood and protect our mental health. Dr Emma Burrow was also present at the unveiling event at the Singapore campus of JCU.

JCU is committed to promoting and championing positive mental health, and the Psychology Clinic and the Clinical Psychology Team play an important role in supporting these efforts.

Dr Natasha Riard, Psychology Clinic Manager at JCU in Singapore, says, “The Psychology Clinic is a training facility for students completing the postgraduate professional course in clinical psychology at James Cook University, Singapore. The clinic provides services to JCU, Singapore students and the community for a variety of presenting concerns across the lifespan. We have active collaborations with hospitals such as KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, as well as community providers such as MINDS and Bishan Home to help them with psychological services. Our fees are lower than most comparable clinical psychology services in Singapore and further reduced for those on minimal income.”

Professor Chris Rudd OBE, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Head of Campus, Singapore at JCU, says, “The University is grateful for this valuable donation, and I look forward to the ways that this rich and beautiful artwork will add depth and perspective for visitors.”

Find out more about the JCU Singapore Psychology Clinic.

Find out more about the Singapore campus of James Cook University.

Contacts

Media: Ms Pinky Sibal [email protected]