20 LUMEN | ALUMNI
Jon Max Goh :
Inspired by
Community
By Victoria Teng
SJI alumnus Jon Max Goh ’ s menswear exhibition at the National Design Centre in January stunned the public with his incorporation of local materials into his designs , giving them a distinctly Asian feel . Rich in culture , his exhibition also defied expectations surrounding what men could suitably wear , further provoking many viewers ’ interest , including mine , with its layered meaning .
Jon began in Singapore at SJI and proceeded to complete his degree at Parson ’ s School of Design in New York , where he currently resides and works . In 2015 he was Parsons ’ Menswear Designer of the Year , and his work has been featured in Vogue Italia . He is an inspiration for young aspiring artists , and when asked about his own sources of inspiration , he mentioned family and community . Jon credits his family as having been instrumental in his pursuit of design as a career . They enrolled him in art classes as a child , and they still sometimes help him source materials . His parents are his biggest supporters . It is heartwarming to note that such a successful artist like him still remains humble , rooted and grateful for those who have supported him from the very beginning .
Having also received ample support and inspiration during his school years , Jon spoke of outstanding educators who made art as a subject more about exploration and the process of creation rather than simply attaining good grades . He also emphasised that students need time to grow and explore without excessive pressure from deadlines or menial tasks . With this in mind , Jon offers thoughtful advice to art students
and youth pursuing other creative fields – to listen to their hearts and be sincere in all of their work .
For students taking IB Visual Art and O level Art , Jon ’ s journey and artwork offers inspiration in its exploration of similar themes and emphasis on passion and sincerity . It is also noteworthy that though Jon studied and is working in New York , a significant part of his inspiration remains to be Singapore and his heritage . In fact , family and community have had an enormous influence
Jon offers thoughtful advice to art students and youth pursuing other creative fields – to listen to their hearts and be sincere in all of their work .