The Merlion

By Christina Lau Lay Lian, Mouth and Foot Painting Artists

The Merlion is indisputably the official mascot of Singapore. A mythical creature shaped by history and imagination. The Lion head, bold and watchful, draws from the tale of Sang Nila Utama, a prince of Palembang known to have glimpsed a lion and thereafter decided to name the island, Singapura — the "Lion City", as told in the Sejarah Melayu. The fish recalls Singapore’s humble beginnings as a fishing village, where life rose and fell with the tides. In form and meaning, the Merlion becomes more than a symbol as it carries within its frame the spirit of origin, transformation, and the quiet power of stories passed through time.

About

After a life-changing car accident in 2005 that left her with C6 spinal cord injury, Christina Lau discovered new ways to express herself through art. Despite being paralysed from her chest down and the loss of finger movements, she transformed her journey from Prison Officer to artist, demonstrating remarkable resilience. Through her artwork, she continues to share her unique perspective, proving that creativity knows no physical bounds.

SKU: MFPA-042

Medium: Watercolour Painting

Dimensions (WxH): 43cm x 53cm