Canvas of Hope is slated to launch this weekend with new artworks exploring visibility and advocacy; The Rare Gallery opens 14 September 2025 with charity art gala dinner set for 28 March 2026

SINGAPORE, Sept. 9, 2025 -- Internationally acclaimed Chinese contemporary artist Liu Bolin, widely known as the "Invisible Man" for his thought-provoking camouflage performances, has unveiled three new Singapore-themed artworks under the Canvas of Hope initiative — a collaboration with the Rare Disorders Society (Singapore) [RDSS].

His live art creations, already underway, have drawn attention across the island as Liu and his team prepared with site surveys, pre-painting at local studios, and live sessions at iconic Singapore landmarks. Inspired by the stories of individuals living with rare disorders, these works capture both the resilience and unseen struggles of families facing medical complexities that often define their everyday lives.

On 14 September 2025, these works will be unveiled at the launch of The Rare Gallery at the Glass Dome, PlayPan (Far East Square). The launch will be officiated by Mr Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Law & Ministry of Social and Family Development, who will grace the event as Guest-of-Honour.

The Rare Gallery will present Liu's signature perspective on what societies choose to see — and what remains unseen — through 13 pieces of work in the Hiding in the City series, and behind-the-scenes footages of three locally anchored artworks for Canvas of Hope:

• Grounded Journeys (Jewel Rain Vortex, Changi Airport) – Travel as a symbol of freedom is juxtaposed with the restrictions rare-disease families face, who often cannot travel due to medical constraints.
• Dreams of Play (Toa Payoh Dragon Playground) – The nostalgia of a national icon is reframed to spotlight children for whom play is not always possible due to their conditions.
• Magazine Rack – Singapore Chapter – A special Singapore edition of Liu's internationally recognised series, created in a milestone year marking both the 20th anniversary of his Invisible Man works and Singapore's 60th year of independence. At the gallery launch, the Guest-of-Honour will be invited to add the final stroke to this piece.

The Rare Gallery exhibition will be Liu Bolin's largest exhibition in Singapore to date.

"Art has the power to heal, to lend a voice, and to connect," Liu said while in Singapore preparing the works. "This collaboration with RDSS, involving children with rare diseases, is truly an initiative born from love. The same spirit extends to the works we will see from this collaboration. It is truly a very special project, and one that is definitely different from my past creations."

"Liu Bolin is a sincere and down-to-earth artist who believes in using art to build human connections and spark meaningful conversations around issues that often go unseen, such as rare diseases," said Phua Wee Seng, Executive Director of RDSS. "We connected over a shared belief that love is a powerful language that binds people together, and that with love, support and understanding can reach even those who often go unseen. At RDSS, we hope to build a community where Love Is Not Rare."

As part of the Canvas of Hope programme, Liu Bolin will be delivering a guest lecture at NTU's School of Art, Design and Media (ADM) on 11 September 2025, where he will share his artistic insights and experiences with art students and faculties in Singapore. He will speak on art as a form of therapy, its role in society, and its power to inspire social change.

The official launch on 14 September will feature an artist walk-through and the live completion of the third art piece, Magazine Rack – Singapore Chapter, accompanied by a two-day public showcase and sales of limited-edition merchandise in support of Canvas of Hope.

The completed works from this inaugural Canvas of Hope will be presented at a charity sales and gala dinner on 28 March 2026 (presented with gallery partner Yang Gallery), with proceeds directed towards RDSS programmes including therapy subsidies, mobility support, and caregiver assistance.

For more information on Canvas of Hope, please visit: https://rdss.org.sg/canvas-of-hope/

About Liu Bolin
Liu Bolin is a renowned Chinese contemporary artist best known as the "Invisible Man" for his Hiding in the City series, where he camouflages himself into environments through meticulous hand-painted performances. His work explores themes of identity, visibility, and marginalisation — giving voice to those often overlooked by society. Exhibited worldwide — from MoMA PS1 to the Louvre — and making his Southeast Asian debut last year with live activations in Singapore, Liu's art also serves as powerful advocacy, raising awareness of global issues such as health, climate change, and resilience.

About Rare Disorders Society (Singapore) [RDSS]
Founded in 2011, Rare Disorders Society (Singapore) [RDSS] is an IPC-status charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by rare diseases in Singapore. Its vision is a society where people with rare diseases can thrive — one that is inclusive, equitable, and innovative.

Guided by the values of empathy, resilience, equity, inclusion, innovation, and partnership, RDSS empowers individuals living with rare diseases and their loved ones. The organisation builds a strong community, advocates for fair access to care, and fosters a culture of inclusiveness and support.

Volunteer-led, RDSS provides direct assistance, strengthens community connections, and raises public awareness for some of Singapore's most overlooked medical conditions. Committed to its mission, RDSS works to ensure that every individual with a rare disease has the opportunity to lead a life of dignity and quality. Today, RDSS supports over 200 patients and their families, positively impacting more than 800 lives across Singapore.

About Yang Gallery
Established in 2005, Yang Gallery is one of the most prestigious contemporary fine art galleries in Asia, with locations in Singapore and Beijing. Representing a roster of leading regional and international artists, the gallery showcases a diverse collection including oil paintings, sculptures, watercolors, photography, installations, and more.

With a deep understanding of both art appreciation and market dynamics, Yang Gallery offers collectors a refined blend of expertise and insight into high-quality, investment-grade artworks. Its clientele includes private collectors, contemporary art museums, luxury brands, and global investors. The gallery is also known for embracing cross-industry collaborations and welcomes partnerships that expand the role of art in society.