University of the Arts Singapore’s Chairman inaugural visit to NAFA

NAFA welcomed Mr Jose Isidro “Lito” Navato Camacho on his first official visit as Chairperson of the University of the Arts Singapore (UAS) to our vibrant campus on 26 October 2022.

The day began with a meeting with Mrs Tan-Soh Wai Lan, President of NAFA and the academy’s leadership team, where they shared about the academy’s mission in learning and development of the arts, and our future plans.

During a tour of NAFA’s facilities, Mr Camacho got a close-up look at the various practice-led curriculum and exhibitions including Peel Here and Art School SG: Tang Da Wu “This One is Dangerous” while engaging with our colleagues, students and alumni to gain a better understanding of their passion and drive for excellence at NAFA.

Seated: Ms Carol Sim, Senior Director of Student Services Division; Mr Jerry Soo, Vice President (Academic); Mr Jose Isidro “Lito” Navato Camacho, Chairperson of University of the Arts Singapore (UAS); Mrs Tan-Soh Wai Lan, President of NAFA; and Mr Ho Chee Pong, Chief Operating Officer of UAS.

Standing: Ms Hazel Chan, Director of Strategic Development Division; Dr Bridget Tracy Tan, Director of Institute of Southeast Asian Arts & Art Galleries, Academic Advisor, Southeast Asian Arts; Ms Sabrina Long, Dean of School of Art & Design; Dr Ernest Lim, Dean of School of Music; Dr Caren Carino, Dean of School of Arts Management, Dance and Theatre; Ms Ho Hui May, Dean of Office of Academic Affairs; and Dr Tan Lay Pheng, Director of Industry & Projects and President’s Office.

During the tour, Mr Camacho had the opportunity to speak to an indigenous lecturer from Thailand to understand the curriculum and our Southeast Asian focus.

Vice Dean of NAFA’s Fine Art Programme, Ms Sabrina Koh, shared about the academy’s contemporary art practice and the importance of giving the students space, physically and artistically for their creative output.

Mr Camacho toured the library and viewed its special collections, understanding the role NAFA plays in the archival of art history in the region.

From left: Mr Ho Chee Pong, Chief Operating Officer of UAS; Professor Kwok Kian Woon, Vice-Chancellor of UAS; Mr Jose Isidro “Lito" Navato Camacho, Chairperson of UAS; and Mrs Tan-Soh Wai Lan, President of NAFA. Our guests were presented with a copy of Accordion Books: Delightful Collection by our Fine Art pioneers.