Best In Class: Temasek Polytechnic Fresh Graduates On Their Goals And Dreams As Creatives
It’s traditionally the time of year when tertiary institutions hold their graduation ceremonies. The talents here were all recommended by their respective design schools as the cream of the crop. What they all have in common: sharp ideas, soft power and zero interest in playing it safe. Here’s a look at each of their final‑year projects, or FYPs, as well as attitudes towards pursuing a life in the arts.
CHRISTABEL SI, 20, DIPLOMA IN APPAREL DESIGN & MERCHANDISING, TEMASEK POLYTECHNIC
Balancing avant‑garde details and deep conceptual storytelling on garments that are still wearable, Christabel Si’s final‑year project Aviditas was inspired by the reimagination of the fallen angel Lucifer, and aims to question the nature of rebellion, good and evil.
ABOUT HER FYP: “Aviditas (the name of her collection) is Latin for longing, covetousness and greed. My FYP tells the story of the fallen angel Lucifer – once a perfect, celestial being now cast as a dark, ominous figure. The collection poses the question: ‘Why was the devil punished?’ If angels were created to be sinless and obedient, how was Lucifer even capable of rebellion? He was condemned for the nature of his heart as though he were created only to be forsaken.”
WHAT DREW HER TO HER DISCIPLINE: “Freedom of expression is something I value deeply. That’s why I want to design clothes that give people the confidence to be bold, to embrace their passions and to express themselves unapologetically. My hope is to build a platform that genuinely represents the alternative community here.”
FIRST‑JOB GOALS: “I wouldn’t feel discouraged if my first job isn’t creatively fulfil ling. There’s always something to learn … As long as I’m learning, getting paid and generally doing what I love, I’ll be content.”
HER IDEA OF SUCCESS AT THIS STAGE IN LIFE: “After the graduation show, many people reached out to express interest in my designs and to ask about my final‑year project. Just knowing there are people out there who appreciate my work already feels like success. And to have a magazine reach out to want to feature it? This feels surreal.”
HAN WENXIU, 21, DIPLOMA IN APPAREL DESIGN & MERCHANDISING, TEMASEK POLYTECHNIC
Playing with seamless shapes and quiet complexity, Han Wenxiu’s practice rethinks classic proportions with a fresh, organic twist. Her final‑year project, Danse Macabre, dives into notions of death and existentialism, translating these themes into circular motifs and sheer layers that turn vulnerability into something bold and serene.
ABOUT HER FYP: “Titled Danse Macabre, it explores the relationship between death and existentialism. What drew me to this is the idea that even in the face of uncertainty or perceived meaninglessness, we still carry the responsibility to live authentically. This project is deeply personal and, in many ways, a source of comfort. The unknown – especially surrounding the topic of death – can be terrifying, but I’m learning to release what I can’t control. To symbolise this, I’ve woven throughout the motif of the circle. For me, circles capture the essence of Zen – a state in which the mind, body and soul align in quiet harmony. The circle is a symbol of peace through presence in which the unknown is no longer something to fear. That philosophy also informed the construction, which features circular and continuous loop elements, and fluid, organic forms. Sheer fabrics create de pth and layering, adding a sense of dimension, softness and del icacy.”
IF SHE COULD CHOOSE ANOTHER DISCIPLINE: “Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve truly enjoyed what I studied and have no regrets. In fact, I think fashion design is a highly valuable and versatile skill, one that will continue to serve me well, no matter where I go next.”
ON THE CHALLENGES SHE EXPECTS AHEAD: “One of the biggest is the sheer level of competition. There are so many talented creatives in our generation that it can be difficult to stand out. When you’re starting your own brand, you’re constantly asking yourself, ‘How do I do something different while still staying true to myself?’ Especially now, when so much of what we see is trend‑driven, it’s easy for things
to start looking similar. Another challenge that I think persists in Singapore is the limited number of platforms for artistic exploration and showcasing creative work. There are so many brilliant creatives who don’t always get the recognition they deserve. More support and more space for experimentation could really help the scene evolve an d thrive.”
PHOTOGRAPHY ANGELA GUO ART DIRECTION JONATHAN CHIA HAIR LUNA TEO MAKEUP SARAH TAN
A version of this article first appeared in the July 2025 The Look Of Success Edition of FEMALE