FIGHTING SPIDERS

By Simeon Tan Rui En

"FIGHTING SPIDERS" recalls a time when adventure could fit inside a matchbox. Inspired by a beloved 1960s Singaporean kampong (village) pastime, where boys caught jumping spiders for harmless territorial contests. Simeon uses modelling texture medium and acrylic to immerse the scene in lush green, with two matches beside a nostalgic “Double Happiness” matchbox cheekily representing the tiny rivals. Above them, a spider dangles lazily from its web, quietly watching the drama unfold. This work invites us to ask: in a world of endless distractions, could the simplest forms of PLAY still reconnect us with one another — and with nature?

About

Simeon is a talented artist with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), celebrated for his vibrant, whimsical creations that reflect his rich imagination and distinctive artistic voice across multiple mediums. A distinction graduate of the NAFA CLE Certificate in Visual Arts programme (2021), Simeon has received recognition through the Shining Hearts Award (2024), Neo Kah Kiat Arts Award (2024 & 2025), Liberty Arts Award (2024), and the UOLxART:DIS Art Prize (2025). His works have been featured in exhibitions and collaborations with The Art Faculty, ART:DIS, UOL and Shaping Hearts, including co-designing its 132-metre mural at Punggol Digital District.

SKU: SIME-001
Medium: Mixed Media
Dimensions (WxH): 42cm x 60cm