Supporting the Arts: UOB Painting of the Year
In 1982, UOB launched the UOB Painting of the Year (POY) competition in Singapore, with the aim to uncover and nurture artistic talent — and raise art appreciation within the community.
The competition expanded beyond Singapore in 2010, when it was introduced in Thailand, followed by Indonesia and Malaysia in 2011, and Vietnam in 2023. This regional growth underscores UOB’s commitment to fostering artistic expression and elevating Southeast Asia’s creative potential beyond borders.
UOB POY has provided a significant platform for artists to showcase their work, with many winners achieving national and international acclaim. Mr Goh Beng Kwan, the inaugural winner in 1982, was later honoured with the Cultural Medallion, Singapore’s highest artistic accolade.
Highlighting UOB POY’s role in recognising and elevating exceptional talent, several other distinguished winners also received the Cultural Medallion:
- Mr Tay Chee Toh (UOB POY winner in 1982 and 1985)
- Mr Teo Eng Seng (1982, 1983 and 1984)
- Mr Anthony Poon (1983)
- Mr Thomas Yeo (1983)
- Mr Sarkasi bin Said (1989)
- Mr Chua Ek Kay (1991)
The competition has evolved to reflect contemporary themes and societal issues. For example, in 2023, Ms Pratchaya Charernsook’s Chumphon Estuary won the UOB Southeast Asian Painting of the Year Award for its depiction of environmental challenges, particularly the impact of microplastics in waterways.