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UOL and ART:DIS today unveiled the launch of UOL X ART:DIS Art Prize 2023, Singapore’s first comprehensive art prize that recognises talented artists with disabilities.

Supported by UOL and organised by non-profit organisation ART:DIS, the biennial competition is held in conjunction with UOL’s 60th year and the 30th anniversary of ART:DIS. It aims to support special needs artists in their artistic journey by showcasing their amazing works to the public and opening more opportunities for them to deepen their practice and gain market exposure.

UOL Group Chief Executive Liam Wee Sin said: “To UOL, art promotes expression and creativity, and builds communities. UOL X ART:DIS Art Prize 2023 is a powerful expression of our shared commitment to promote inclusivity and diversity in local arts. Artists with disabilities are very talented, but many of them are underrepresented in mainstream art spaces.

“By highlighting their works, this biennial competition creates a platform for artists to share their stories, inspire others, and raise awareness of accessibility and inclusion in the arts.”

ART:DIS Executive Director Angela Tan said: “An Art Prize of this scale will help to raise greater public interest and appreciation for art created by artists with disabilities, and support them to reach their fullest potential. We believe that they contribute richly to our cultural diversity, with their art as a bridge to promote empathy and acceptance for those who perceive, experience and communicate with the world in different ways.”

All shortlisted entries will be exhibited at The Arts House from 5 to 14 August 2023, with an awards ceremony on 4 August 2023 to announce the winners. Across all categories, there will be cash prizes of more than $25,000, access to capacity-building programmes and mentorship, and a chance to stage a solo show.

The winners will be selected by a panel of art experts, namely Ms Mae Anderson, Chairman, Art Outreach and Managing Director, Head of Philanthropy Services, Asia, BNP Paribas Wealth Management; Ms Dee Chia, Deputy Director of Audience Engagement, National Gallery of Singapore; Mr John Tung, an independent curator and exhibition-maker; and Ms Adeline Kueh, Senior Lecturer, Lasalle College of the Arts Singapore. Mr Liam is also on the judging panel.

UOL has been a long-time supporter of ART:DIS since 2014, and inclusive arts is a cause that is close to their hearts. The Group was honoured to be recognised by ART:DIS as the Enduring Partner at its charity gala dinner held on 20 May 2023.

UOL remains a strong advocate of inclusive arts since 2014 to open more opportunities for persons with disabilities.

UOL was recognised as the Enduring Partner of ART:DIS at its charity gala dinner held at Shangri-la Hotel.