LEADING LIGHTS

PRESTIGE HONOURS THE OUTSTANDING PERSONALITIES WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR RESPECTIVE FIELDS.

- KAREN TEE

PATRON AWARD, WEE WEI LING

The philanthropist supports emerging artists and uplifts special needs communities through art.

In a move demonstrating free expression of the artists she supports, the recipient of Prestige Singapore's Patron Award Wee Wei Ling hangs five paintings of nude women by South Korean artist Geumran Choi not in her bedroom, but in the living area. Wei Ling, the executive director of Sustainable Partnerships, Lifestyle and Asset at Pan Pacific Hotels Group Limited, says: "Now, they are out where they can be admired."

Offering artists a platform for their work resonates deeply with Wei Ling. Under her stewardship, the Pan Pacific Hotels Group has curated a collection that includes works by Chua Ek Kay and Dr Iskandar Jalil as well as commissioned pieces by ART:DIS, which supports artists with disabilities. These artworks are prominently displayed in its various properties for guests to enjoy.

"An artwork captures an artist's heart and soul and is nurtured just like a baby. This is why we have a policy of investing in local artists as well as up and coming and special needs artists," says Wei Ling.

The group also works closely with the National Arts Council and National Gallery Singapore - past partnerships include Singapore Art Week 2022 and National Gallery's upcoming gallery benefit event.

For her personal collection, Wei Ling prefers to seek out acquisitions from the Affordable Art Fair and from lesser known artists on her travels - Hanoi is a particular favourite - as a way to directly support budding talent.

AIso a strong supporter of the performing arts, she sits on the board of the Ding Yi Orchestra. She co-founded Extraordinary People in 2018 to support special needs individuals through various initiatives, including art, music and performance lessons.