Boot Back to the Basics

Peter Robbinson is back in Singapore for the third time and the second Houdini Bootcamp at NYP. This time, we have more industry attendees and one of them (a leacuter from a PRC CG school) showed us movies of his students' work from China. The work was amazingly impressive and I really kow-tow to the dedication and artistic talents of the PRC students and trainers.

Why is Singapore, supposedly technologically and educationally more advanced than many Asian countries, so lacking in such calibre of work? Even our local professionals' work are hard pressed to match the quality of their student efforts. What gives?

My take is that we (as a creative culture) lack a few key things:

1. Dedication and drive - Singaporeans are amongst the most lazy when it comes to work, but the most particular when it comes to rewards.

2. Obsession with excellence - Singaporeans do the minimum to "pass" and seldom give more than is required, which is why most stay within the confines of conformity and seldom achieve excellence. Yes we've won a few awards, but that should serve as encouragement to do even better, not as proof that we are already good enough.

3. Artistic and creative leadership - Singaporeans like to delude and praise themselves for their small achievements, but at the end of the day, our ranking has a shallow meaning since most of our so-called "world-class" is often just average from a truly expert perspective. Get rid of your stinking ego already!

4. Cooperation and creative teamwork - Many Singaporeans like to be the "Indian Chief" to gain prestige, power and position while contributing nothing of lasting value to the group effort. Of course our well-educated leaders use big word and express big ideas, but they are often superficial application of intelligence and borrowed concepts, devoid of true insight and long term wisdom with lasting benefits.

Hmm, am I back in Singapore-bashing mood again lately? I wonder why? :P :P

I believe we do have the ability to do much better, if only we can overcome the fetters that block our united progress. The key always lie with people and their attitudes, not with with money, technology or physical resources.

Together. Majulah.