| James Kon |
Local artist Huifong Ng put the country on the map after she became the first Bruneian to receive the International Prize Colosseo award in Rome recently.
This is her second accolade in recognition of her artworks. Last year, she collected an award from the International Biennale of Umbria, also from Italy.
The Kuala Belait lass made headlines last year when she donated the proceeds from her painting of the late Lee Kuan Yew to a charitable organisation in Singapore. The painting was sold for a cool B$60,000.
“Receiving this latest award is an encouragement for me because it shows that there is appreciation towards my work.
“The many hours I spent toiling in my studio have come to fruition.
Huifong Ng with her International Prize Colosseo award. – JAMES KON
“I used to only dream of this, and now I’m pursuing my dream in turning art as a passion into a profession.
“I never thought that I would receive awards for my work. The awards are rewards to my artistic merit.
“Recognition from the art world and the congratulatory messages from my family and friends and social media followers give me a tremendous feeling, so great I can only express it in one word – blessed.
“I feel so blessed that everything has turned out great. Everyone has given me trust and support.”
Ng, who is currently based in Singapore, said she was gearing up for a solo exhibition in Italy, but would “probably take two years”.
“Not all things come easy. There are times of darkness and fear of not knowing what to do next.
“But through persistence and hope, we will find light shining from within us to lead the way through the dark.
“This award will serve as a reminder for me to continue to work hard and paint from my heart.”
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