City in Blossom - Jewel Within
By Eugene Soh • QUA x ART:DIS
ABOUT THE COLLECTION
Created by ART:DIS artist Eugene Soh, Jewel Within is the inaugural artwork of the City in Blossom series. Featuring Jewel Changi Airport and its iconic Rain Vortex, the artwork transforms one of Singapore's most recognisable landmarks into a flourishing landscape of orchids, heliconias and the native Kopsia singapurensis. Drawing from Jewel's philosophy as a garden enclosed within architecture, the composition blurs the boundaries between the built environment and the natural world, reflecting Singapore's vision of a city where both flourish together. This original artwork forms the foundation of the Jewel Within collection, where contemporary art is translated onto Qua's handcrafted lacquerware.
Introducing
City in Blossom
City in Blossom celebrates Singapore's vision as a City in Nature, where architecture and biodiversity exist in harmony. Created in partnership with ART:DIS, the collection brings together the unique perspectives of local artists to honour Singapore's iconic landmarks through art and craftsmanship, while championing the creative voices of artists with disabilities. As the collection continues to grow, each new chapter invites a fresh way of seeing the places that shape our island and the stories that connect us.
Highlights of the Collection
Every element of the composition was thoughtfully arranged to create a harmonious visual journey, balancing Jewel's distinctive architecture with the symbolic presence of the Rhyncattleanthe Nell Hammer orchid, Heliconia and Kopsia singapurensis.
Rain Vortex
Inspired by Jewel's evening light displays, Eugene paints the Rain Vortex not as clear water, but in the vibrant colours of its nightly illumination. Flowing through the heart of the artwork, the waterfall becomes the visual thread that unites the surrounding tropical flora with Jewel's iconic architecture. More than the composition's centrepiece, it guides the eye across the landscape, reflecting the harmony between nature, creativity and innovation that defines both Jewel Changi Airport and Singapore's vision as a City in Nature.
Flower
Rhyncattleanthe Nell Hammer Orchid
One of Singapore's most recognisable orchids, the Rhyncattleanthe Nell Hammer symbolises elegance, resilience and the nation's identity as a City in Nature. Its graceful blooms reflect the harmony between nature, innovation and thoughtful design.
Flower
The Heliconia
Known for its striking tropical colours and sculptural form, the Heliconia captures the vitality of Singapore's lush landscapes. Its vibrant presence evokes the movement of the Rain Vortex and the flourishing biodiversity that surrounds Jewel.
Flower
Native Kopsia singapurensis
Named after Singapore, the Kopsia singapurensis is a rare native species found only in Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. Though less familiar than the orchid, it represents our unique natural heritage and reminds us of the importance of conserving the species that make our landscape distinctive.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Eugene Soh
Eugene is a self-trained artist with a BA in Mathematics from the National University of Singapore. He was born able-bodied but an abnormal growth on his spine led to multiple surgeries.
Although he was devastated by his inability to move freely, the support from his family and friends encouraged him to continue his journey towards physical and emotional recovery. Today, Eugene is an impressionist artist whose works are highly sought after for their ethereal beauty and rich texture. When he is not painting, he is fuelling his passion in Mathematics by tutoring high school and tertiary students.
Socially Responsible Gifts
At Qua, we are deeply committed to supporting meaningful causes in Singapore and the non-profit organisations that work tirelessly to make a difference.
We extend our CSR efforts by showcasing the talent of artists with disabilities, while fostering greater awareness and appreciation for their creativity within the wider community.
QUA x ART:DIS
We have been collaborating with persons with disabilities (PWDs) since 2011, creating a revenue stream for them through their art. In doing so, we immortalise their creations, allowing them to sell more than just one painting at a time.
We were the first in Singapore to work with the Pathlight School, and are now, we collaborate extensively with ART:DIS (Arts & Disability Singapore) to introduce a collection of gift premiums featuring the artwork from ART:DIS’ Arts for Livelihood and Employment (ALIVE) Programme.
All artists earn royalties from the sale of their merchandise and artwork commissions.
About ART:DIS
ART:DIS is the leading non-profit charity organisation dedicated to providing opportunities for persons with disabilities (PWDs) to be involved in the arts sphere. ART:DIS works to create and provide access and opportunities for PWDs through the arts. It promotes visual, performing and literary arts through various programmes and events for PWDs.
ART:DIS has also established pathways for them to progress and excel in their fields and pursue a career in the arts. It created Singapore’s first inclusive theatre and first inclusive literary art programme and was founded and launched by Ambassador-at-Large Prof Tommy Koh.
Featured post
From Sketch to Lacquer: The Making of Jewel Within
Introducing City in Blossom, an ongoing artist collaboration series by Qua that celebrates Singapore through contemporary art.Inspired by the nation's vision as a City in Nature, the series invites local...