Lee Wen receives Joseph Balestier Award for Freedom of Art
Lee Wen, a Singaporean performance artist famed for his Yellow Man series, has been awarded the second Joseph Balestier Award for Freedom of Art. This accolade, which carries a prize of US$15,000, recognizes artists or curators from Southeast Asia who advocate for artistic liberty. The presentation took place on 19 January 2016, with U.S. Ambassador to Singapore Kirk Wagar and Art Stage Singapore founding director Lorenzo Rudolf officiating. Since 1989, Wen has been an influential member of the avant-garde Artists Village, pushing boundaries in Singapore's performance art landscape with works that confront cultural and societal norms. His nomination was among a shortlist that featured Aye Ko and Nguyen Trinh Thi. Lee Wen's artistic endeavors encompass performances, installations, and writings.
Key facts
- Lee Wen won the second Joseph Balestier Award for Freedom of Art
- The award includes a US$15,000 prize
- It was presented on 19 January 2016
- Presenters were U.S. Ambassador Kirk Wagar and Lorenzo Rudolf
- Lee Wen is known for the Yellow Man series
- He has been part of the Artists Village since 1989
- The shortlist included Aye Ko and Nguyen Trinh Thi
- The award honors Southeast Asian artists or curators dedicated to artistic freedom
Entities
Artists
- Lee Wen
- Aye Ko
- Nguyen Trinh Thi
Institutions
- Artists Village
- Art Stage Singapore
Locations
- Singapore