[20 February 2008]
Singapore Management University presents Socio-Political themed works of art by renowned eye surgeon Professor Arthur Lim

Singapore, 20 February 2008 – The Singapore Management University (SMU) is proud to present Arthur's Socio-political Art, an exhibition of works by the multi-talented and distinguished ophthalmologist, Professor Arthur Lim. The exhibition opens today with 22 works, which are his personal commentary and observations of social, national and political developments, created in the last two decades. These works include Owl, Sterile City, Generation Gap, Caning, as well as his impressions of Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew and the late David Marshall.

An avid painter and art collector, it has been more than a decade since Professor Lim held a solo exhibition. He uses the canvas as a window into his thoughts and feelings on a wide range of issues that impact people and society . His last solo exhibition was held in 1997 at the Opera Gallery in Paris, France. His works have drawn much attention and interest from collectors, artists and the casual observer alike, for their thought-provoking, yet unique and keen perspectives. Professor Lim has also produced a catalogue about his works in the exhibition.

Held in high regard as an eye surgeon and a philanthropist, who has contributed much to society and the development of ophthalmology, Professor Lim actively taps on his many talents for the betterment of society. For his efforts and work, he has received several awards and national honours, both at home and abroad.

"Professor Lim once noted that the more educated, determined and positive the values of the people of a nation, the greater the ability of a nation to move towards greater achievement, and hence the great importance of a university education. At SMU we aim to give our students the best possible university education to broaden their horizons as leaders of tomorrow. Presenting quality art exhibitions and programmes is one way we seek to encourage greater understanding of societies and cultures and to expose our students to different ways of perceiving reality. At the same time, such exhibitions enrich and enliven the SMU campus experience for students and the general public. We are therefore delighted to present Professor Lim's rarely seen but very meaningful works. He is a highly respected opthalmologist who is a good friend and supporter of SMU, and like-minded in our pursuit to provide quality university education. He translates his thoughts on issues of the day on canvas in ways that encourage viewers to continue a dialogue on issues of the time. I believe everyone will enjoy this show and find it to be stimulating," said Professor Howard Hunter, SMU President.

The exhibition opening is officiated by Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community Development, Youth And Sports, and Second Minister for Information, Communications And The Arts. The works are at The Gallery at the School of Economics / School of Social Sciences in SMU until 9 March 2008 (daily 10am-8pm).

About Professor Arthur Lim

Arthur Lim Siew Ming was born on 24 April 1934 in Hong Kong, to parents who strongly encouraged and supported the development of his many talents. He is an eye surgeon of international repute, a well-known teacher and author, an able administrator, a man whose political and economic views are valued, a sportsman of no mean ability, and last but not least, an artistic talent.

A keen art student since he was a young boy, Professor Lim's preferred medium is acrylic and oil. His paintings, which also include watercolours and pastels, are strongly influenced by some of his favourite artists, Wu Guanzhong, Chen Wen Hsi and Lin Fengmian. An avid art collector, Professor Lim has been listed in Art International as among 200 great art collectors in the world. His collection of over 800 pieces range from traditional Chinese paintings to those of western masters.

The eminent ophthalmologist has written over 30 books and more than 300 papers on ophthalmology and socio-medical issues. He was conferred both the Public Service Star and Public Service Star Bar by the Singapore government, and has also received national honours and accolades from the People's Republic of China, for his work in developing ophthalmology training and treatment in the country.