Berlinda Tan

Project title: What is the experience of using clay as an international student, coping in a new country?

As a child growing up in Singapore, I have been fortunate to have easy access to various amenities right at my doorstep. I have never had to worry about food, transportation, or inconvenience since everything is conveniently located nearby. Singapore is renowned for its wide array of culinary delights, making it a true paradise for food enthusiasts. Whenever I feel hungry, I can simply walk a short distance to the nearest shopping center to satisfy my cravings. Grocery stores operate round the clock, and the public transportation system, including buses and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), is incredibly well-connected throughout the entire island of Singapore. Safety has never been a concern in my everyday life.

However, leaving my comfortable and sheltered lifestyle behind, I experienced a sense of fear and uncertainty when I first arrived in Australia as an international student with no prior experience of living overseas. The cultural differences posed significant challenges. I had no knowledge of nearby food establishments, which bus to board, and the streets were not well-lit, causing me further unease. Identifying sources of support was also a struggle, and personal safety became a constant worry. As weeks went by, I embarked on a quest to find places and food that reminded me of Singapore. I would often find myself in tears at night, longing for the familiarity of my home. Adjusting to university lectures was tough, and cultural norms made it difficult for me to approach a counsellor for assistance. In Chinese culture, it is customary to only share good news with family members and not burden them with the hardships that one faces. Despite being the most arduous journey I have ever embarked on, it allowed me to rediscover my passion for clay art and explore its therapeutic potential.

Hence, this research project emerged, featuring various art pieces that document my on-going journey of exploring clay as a form of coping as an international student, deviating from traditional talk therapy. My artworks reflect my honest emotions, physical challenges, and mental aspects associated with this research undertaking. They serve as a representation of my struggles, incorporating different lines, shapes, and colors that portray my research journey. Although they may not be visually flawless, these artworks epitomize the reality of my research exploration.