Where art meets sport at Team Singapore Wall of Fame
Athletes are often compared to artists, and for good reason. Performing at the highest level under immense pressure requires a unique form of artistry. This is what captivates us, pulling us into stadiums and in front of our screens—the opportunity to witness greatness. However, what is often overlooked is that greatness is not achieved in a single moment. It is built through countless hours of grueling training, constant sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to an ideal. This is the reality of elite sports.
Similarly, art mirrors this process. It isn’t just about the final brushstroke on a canvas or the completion of a sculpture. The artistry is present in every sketch, every mistake, and every revision. The finished piece is merely the culmination of a journey filled with passion, dedication, and the desire to create something beyond oneself.
This concept is perfectly captured by the Team Singapore Wall of Fame, a mural crafted by local graffiti artist Ceno2, also known as Mohammad Azlan. Tasked with portraying the essence of Team Singapore athletes, Ceno embraced the same relentless pursuit and dedication that drives every athlete. “It’s culture,” he said. “Sport and art share many similarities. Both are about passion and commitment to your craft, and valuing the process just as much as the outcome.”
The mural highlighted five Olympians and Paralympians: Nur Syahidah Alim (Para archery), Shanti Pereira (Athletics), Maximilian Maeder (Sailing), Loh Kean Yew (Badminton), and Yip Pin Xiu (Para swimming). Each athlete was selected for their remarkable contributions and achievements on the global sporting stage, symbolizing the strength and determination that represent Singapore’s athletes.
As an artist, Ceno felt a deep sense of pride and responsibility to honor these athletes by capturing their true emotions. His respect for the athletes, the sporting community, and the Kampong Glam culture was evident throughout his creative process.
Before starting the mural, Ceno insisted on speaking with each athlete to understand their passion and motivation. He aimed to portray not only their physical likeness but also their personal journeys—the silent struggles and victories that shaped who they are. Additionally, as a Singaporean deeply connected to the local community, he wanted his mural to be a heartfelt tribute. “I eat the Nasi Padang here, drink teh, and chat with the shop owners. This area is a part of me, and I’m a part of it,” he shared.
Ceno also emphasized that the mural represents more than just individual accomplishments. To him, each athlete embodies the collective spirit of Team Singapore. “They are Team Singapore,” Ceno explained. “No one stands out more than the other. Whether competing individually or as a team, they represent the nation. Every detail in this mural reflects the group, not just the individual. They are a united force of our stars.”
Similar to the challenges in sport, creating the mural was far from straightforward, and the effort required to achieve the final product often goes unnoticed by the casual observer.
To accurately depict the unique features of each athlete, Ceno blended and layered up to 15 different shades to capture their distinct complexions and expressions. For Shanti’s chin alone, he used nine different shades, demonstrating the intricate level of detail Ceno put into the mural.
Just as these athletes have endured grueling conditions in their training, Ceno also faced the elements, working under the sun and rain while meticulously planning every stroke and detail. His careful attention to detail ensured that the mural not only resembled the athletes physically but also conveyed the spirit and emotion behind their moments of triumph.
The Olympians, Paralympians, and the rest of Team Singapore have dedicated their lives to pursuing perfection in their respective sports. Whether reaching personal bests or competing at major Games, every milestone reflects their extraordinary commitment and perseverance, making their journeys truly worth celebrating. And what better way to honor this than through an art mural?
Beyond admiration, the Team Singapore Wall of Fame serves to inspire an understanding of the importance of the journey, not just the final outcome. It celebrates the powerful truth that greatness isn’t found solely in results but in the courage to take the road less traveled. It recognizes the unseen hours of effort and sacrifice made by our Team Singapore athletes and underscores the crucial role we all play in supporting their dreams.
Just as these athletes have endured grueling conditions in their training, Ceno also faced the elements, working under the sun and rain while meticulously planning every stroke and detail. His careful attention to detail ensured that the mural not only resembled the athletes physically but also conveyed the spirit and emotion behind their moments of triumph.
After all, it’s One Team, One Dream.