The Challenge of Recognition
As precise and efficient as HDB flat price valuations are, Singapore struggles to value creativity.
Singapore has long been recognized for its relentless focus on productivity, efficiency, and engineering—a legacy of our rapid economic development. While this has led to undeniable success in many sectors, it has also left us grappling with an awkward relationship with the creative industries. Making a viable business out of creative work often feels like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Films, for instance, are notorious for being produced at a loss here. Unlike Hollywood, which, despite its struggles, manages to turn a profit or at least secure tax benefits. Europe relies on public and private funding deeply ingrained in their cultural fabric. Singapore, however, finds itself in a confusing blend of both models. Yet, it’s unclear if we are adopting the best parts of either approach.
The Importance of Recognition
Recognition in the creative field is not just about accolades or financial success; it’s about societal value. When a society recognizes and values its creative output, it fosters an environment where creativity can thrive. In Singapore, the lack of recognition for creative work has historically stifled the growth of the arts. For instance, we often only celebrate our homegrown talents, whether animators or musicians, after they gain international acclaim. The success of films like Ilo Ilo at the Cannes Film Festival is a perfect example. Only after receiving international awards did it gain significant media attention and appreciation locally.
On-Paper vs. Social Recognition
While the Singaporean government offers significant support for creative projects through grants, this often addresses only the financial side. The broader cultural and societal impact remains largely unaddressed. What’s missing is a deeper, more pervasive appreciation for creativity across society. Recognition on paper—through awards or grants—is important, but it is the wider social recognition that truly makes a difference. Without a society that values creativity as much as productivity, creative endeavors can feel undervalued and unsupported. This remains true no matter how much funding they receive.
The ROI Dilemma
Singapore’s pragmatic nature means we are always questioning the ROI of any investment, including those in the arts. This is where creative work faces its greatest challenge—its ROI is not immediately obvious or tangible. Unlike a factory that produces a quantifiable number of goods, the impact of a film, a piece of music, or an art installation is harder to measure. Yet, the cultural and emotional value these projects bring is immense. For a nation like ours, built on questioning the financial return of every project, this presents a significant hurdle.
Moving Forward: Pushing Through the Odds
Complaining about this state of affairs won’t change it. But by bringing awareness to it, we can start to shift perspectives. While we do see signs of change—such as the celebration of local artists during National Day Parade (NDP) and the growing positivity toward local arts—there’s still a long way to go. Social cues like these add energy to all creative sectors, including film, advertising, and beyond. The focus should not just be on the technical execution but on nurturing a society that values the stories and ideas that creative work brings to life.
My stance is simple. Push through the odds, do it regardless of recognition, and give back to young creatives by encouraging them. Recognition will come, but the first step is to create with passion. Know that you are contributing to the cultural fabric of Singapore. In the end, no amount of virtual production or advanced techniques will make a great movie—only a society that values creativity can do that.
Conclusion: The Business of Creativity
As societal recognition of creativity grows, the impact extends beyond just the arts—it directly influences the creative business landscape as well. With increased appreciation for creative work, the need to constantly re-educate clients diminishes. This allows creatives to price their services appropriately, ensuring a more sustainable and rewarding career. While this challenge isn’t unique to Singapore—many industrially focused societies face similar hurdles—it’s clear that the shifts we’re witnessing now are promising. Recognizing these changes and fostering them will be crucial for the next generation of creatives. This will help them thrive in a more supportive environment where their work is valued both culturally and economically. By embracing these positive shifts, we can create a future where creativity and business success go hand in hand.
