She Has Only Wrought Smiles

You've seen her works around, haven't you? I'm sure they've put a smile on your face. Then you wonder at her audacity, and when (not if) she'll get into trouble. Well, now. She has been arrested.

Sticker Lady. She's one of us (by my definition) who has been brave and not remain silent or devoid of action. http://skl0.tumblr.com/ #FreeStickerLady Still, she has chosen a path that goes against the law.

Earlier this month, a bus driver was jailed a week for negligent driving and causing the death of a 19-year old motorcyclist. So, a vandal. Yes, strictly, the police has a case. But surely, they can use a lighter touch in the application of the penalty on 'vandalism'. If this country is dirtier, I don't think they've that much time tracking down vandals of hmmm...the 'arty' sort. Seriously. Unless, painting the wordings "My Grandfather Road" at strategic locations was somehow the last straw that pissed off the almighty stodge.

Remember, Singapore, has no sense of humor. Our leaders don't seem to encourage street art or even pre-approved sanctioned graffiti. In fact, they take great pains, national resources, budget and effort to track down offenders who threaten to break out of the box and away from social norms. Arts, art and artistic expression? Yea, sure, as long as your creations stay within a box. There's no tolerated freedom here when you want to express any opinions that affect the social norm, incite a public outcry or vaguely insult the incumbent governing authorities. Clearly, I'm trying rather hard to avoid using the word 'subversive'.

So cross the line at your own peril and face the music. Toe the line. The arrest simply screamed, "Teach her some respect!" I'm not sure whether it's to inculcate in us (loose reference) the respect of authority or public property. It's dependent on the judgment, isn't it? A law has been broken, and consequences must be faced. I'll hold my breath, and await the judgment and outcome on this case.