Going back in time to 2021, there was a period during Q3 when I was at a very low point, I wasn’t in a good shape, my mental health and well-being was probably at the bottom of that rabbit hole that I spiralled myself downwards into. 

The above photo was shot on 24th September 2021 by fellow photographer friend Ryan Cheng. A picture speaks a thousand words, on the state of my mental health and well-being during that period. My article on World Mental Health Day 2021 translates them into a pretty lengthy article if you like to know more.

A year has passed, my situation has definitely improved from that dark and down period in 2021, putting aside the normal routine high stress and pressure in running my own photography business in a swinging up and down economic cycle. I am not writing as much in this article (I try to not write as much), as compared to my 2021 article whereby my photography and visual story telling allowed me to unleash (rant) a lot of my thoughts, feelings and emotions at that point in time.

In a period of crisis, there are lessons to be learnt, for you to take note, be mindful and improve on. There is light at the end of the tunnel, there is a beautiful rainbow at the end of this storm. One of the bright sparks/rainbow omen that appear for me, is that my second photography zine (publishing soon) is based on my photography therapy journeys that I embarked during my route to recovery. 

Today on 10th October 2022, World Mental Health Day 2022, I am continuing to spread the message on taking care of your personal mental health and well-being. Please visit and check out this article my alma mater University of Queensland (UQ). “What the health: How do we maintain a healthy headspace”, published by UQ Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, is a good read.    

Be aware and mindful of your personal mental health and well-being. Take good care and be safe as we rebuild a new future of living and work in a post global pandemic world. 

The post World Mental Health Day 2022 appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

What is Rainbow Connection II all about?

Rainbow Connection II is co-created by local artist Lee Yun Qin and underserved communities. This outdoor installation comprises a total of 500 suspended solar light modules made from up cycled cookie containers and solar lights. Each and every individual light module is unique, yet they come together to form a gorgeous sight when lit up at night, scattering and spreading prismatic projections all around. 

Watch closely as each light module gently rotate and sway in the wind, bringing this rainbow, colourful and creative artworks installation to life through the dynamic play of shadows, lights and colours.

“In the Woods” and In the Deep”

Rainbow Connection II’s light module units are designed and individually painted by beneficiaries from social service agency Brighton Connection based on two themes, “In the Woods” and “In the Deep”. Through art and creativity, we can unite the community together through the artworks,  portraying the social fabric that holds individuals together, painting a picture of solidarity amidst diversity. 

After Rainbow Connection II finished its tour of duty to be shining light at the MHC fountain, they will travel into the heartland communities at MacPherson estate and Somerset Youth Park later this year.

Mr Alvin Tan, Deputy Chief Executive (Policy & Community), National Heritage Board (NHB), said, “The installation is part of NHB’s and MHC’s ongoing accessibility efforts to strengthen community connection by working with local artists to engage underserved communities to showcase their works. In this case, we decided to collaborate and create an installation that would reflect our collective hope for a better future for Singaporeans and for Singapore as we further ease COVID-19 community measures.”

Photo tips and ideal time to visit Rainbow Connection II at MHC

In the day, you can view the light modules, each with its own unique individual design, drawing and painting. I recommend visiting in the late afternoon/evening time when it’s not too hot, observe the direction where the sun is setting and keep a lookout for the light rays that would shine through the artworks, giving them a glorious aura and evening glow.

When the sun sets, the skyline would start to change, my favourite blue hour time is here. At this juncture, the light modules would slowly start to light up and come to life! Observe from a short distance away and you can photograph Rainbow Connection II in the foreground, along with MHC, the majestic Sultan Mosque and bustling Kampong Glam in the background. 

Do not miss out connecting with this Rainbow Connection II! You have to slowly enter into the rainbow and walk through this rainbow journey, please be gentle and careful, safety first and do take care of the artworks! 

May the Rainbow Connection II Be With You!

As Singapore starts to fully open up again with the easing of the COVID-19 safety measures, the whole society went through a lot during the past two years. Rainbow Connection II presents a united front through artworks, colours and lights, beacons of rainbow surrounding and connecting us together in solidarity, in the battle against COVID-19 over the past two years as well as making it through and getting out united together. 

Since Rainbow Connection II at MHC ends on 29th May 2022, coinciding with May the 4th Be With You, therefore I would like to wish May The Rainbow Connection II Be With You! 

Information on Rainbow Connection II 

Venue: Malay Heritage Centre Fountain

Date: 29th April to 29th May 2022 (Tuesdays to Sundays, closed on Mondays)

Time: 10am to 9pm

Admission is free.

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