249 sponsors will be conferred the Arts Supporter Award and the Patron of the Arts Awards in recognition for their past year’s contributions to nurture the Singapore arts scene. Between the 214 corporations and 35 individuals, $26.6 million was pledged to the arts in 2010. This is an increase of $4.5 million from the $22.1 million received from the 201 corporations and 39 individuals in 2009, a 20% jump from the previous year. In 2010, 63 of the 249 sponsors were first-time donors who will join the ranks of the 185 repeat and long-term arts patrons. This increase is an indication of sponsors taking a greater stake in growing and developing the Singapore arts scene.
Patronage was mainly targeted at four key areas: direct donations to arts groups and institutions, presentation and advancement of the arts, infrastructure and facilities enhancement, and talent development through scholarships and bursaries.
Benson Puah, chief executive officer of the National Arts Council said, "We are grateful to the giving individuals and companies whose generous contributions underscore that the arts belong to everyone and is a shared responsibility. A diversity of funding sources – not just from the government – is crucial to meet the increasing needs of the mature, developing and emerging artists and arts groups."
He added, "Just as important is how we can better support the efforts of those involved in harnessing the social benefits of the arts as a means to enrich or to connect communities. Indeed, as the power of the arts to transform lives becomes more apparent, we look forward to more patrons investing in the arts and becoming a vital part of our arts ecosystem."
Cecilia Ang, an administration executive in a leading technology company, is among the wider public whose family has benefitted from the private-people sectors’ investment in the arts. Bengawan Solo’s sponsorship of the Mother’s Day Special performances under Esplanade’s Beautiful Sunday series made it possible for her to step into the Esplanade Concert Hall with her mother for the first time. 2
She said, "As first-time concert attendees, my mum and I had an unexpectedly enjoyable time and bonded over the music. The experience even extended to a lively post-concert discussion over our favourite singers and genres! I have always treated my mum to a good meal when it comes to special occasions, but I think I may have found a better way to spend time with my mum. Best of all, there are now many free arts events happening in Singapore on a daily basis and we don’t need to have any special occasion to enjoy the arts."