The “Neighbourhood Gem” of Braddell Heights shines bright. This large-scale gemstone, unveiled at the PAssionArts Festival, celebrates the neighbourhood’s journey and rejuvenated landscape for SG60. Photo credit: People’s Association – PAssionArts.

A vibrant gemstone installation lights up Braddell Heights, uniting residents through art for Singapore’s SG60.

SINGAPORE, 27 July 2025 — Residents of Braddell Heights gathered last evening to unveil a striking art installation in the shape of a giant gemstone, marking a highlight of this year’s PAssionArts Festival and celebrating Singapore’s 60th year of independence (SG60).

Artist Ms. Amruthaa Kalaiselvan of ArtzJohan (standing) guides a multi-generational group of residents at the Braddell Heights PAssionArts Festival arts booth, painting onto tea light holders. Photo credit: People’s Association – PAssionArts.

The community-driven artwork, created under the festival’s theme “Our Neighbourhood Gems”, symbolises Braddell Heights’ unique identity and its journey of renewal. Designed by local arts group ArtzJohan and led by art director Ms Amruthaa Kalaiselvan, the piece features stained-glass-style panels set in a geometric metal frame atop a brightly painted base depicting heerful scenes of community life and families.

Braddell Heights residents work together to assemble the gemstone art installation during the pre-PAssionArts Festival workshop. Their hands-on involvement and teamwork were crucial in bringing the “Neighbourhood Gem” to life, embodying the community’s shared spirit of creation. Photo credit: People’s Association – PAssionArts.

The panels reflect beloved local landmarks including the Serangoon Market, the revamped Braddell Heights Community Club, and the soon-to-open Serangoon Polyclinic. Prior to the unveiling, 15 residents of all ages came together in early July to co-create the artwork, from painting the wooden panels to assembling the gemstone’s final structure.

A family celebrates beside the completed Braddell Heights PAssionArts Festival gemstone installation. The festival provided a space for residents to connect, create, and celebrate their love for Braddell Heights, embodying a modern kampung spirit. Photo credit: People’s Association – PAssionArts.

The project stands as a testament to Ms Kalaiselvan’s mission to nurture a modern kampung spirit through co-creation and shared stories, reinforcing the close bonds within the Braddell Heights community.

Source: People’s Association – PAssionArts Press Release