Unveiling the Artistic Journey of Allan Tan: A Graphic Designer's Tale

In the realm of artistry and creativity, Allan Tan stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of pursuing one's passion against all odds. A proud graduate of the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts in 1992, Allan embarked on a professional journey as a graphic designer. However, it is after hours, under the gentle cloak of night, that his true artistic soul awakens. During these late hours, he wields a paintbrush instead of a mouse, becoming one with his canvases. 

Defying the Boundaries Set by Polio

Allan's journey through life has been far from ordinary. At the tender age of three, polio entered his life, forcing him to embrace calipers and a wheelchair as his constant companions. Recently, a relentless frozen shoulder condition, persisting for nearly two years, cast a shadow over his passion. Frustrated by the fleeting relief offered by traditional massages, Allan embarked on a quest to find a more lasting solution.

The Basketball Court as a Sanctuary

Amid his search for relief, Allan stumbled upon an article featuring Poh Choon and the local wheelchair basketball team. Encouraged by his doctor to engage in physical activity, Allan decided to give wheelchair basketball a try, roughly half a decade ago. The allure lay in its potential to provide exercise that didn't exacerbate his shoulder pain.

A Game that Transcends Pain

Wheelchair basketball became Allan's newfound passion. It not only aided in his shoulder's recovery, which he now estimates to be around 60%, but also provided a sanctuary where he could momentarily escape the clutches of pain. Unlike his painting sessions, which could leave him fatigued after standing for two to three hours, wheelchair basketball allowed him to focus on the game, momentarily leaving his shoulder discomfort behind.

Friendships Forged in Sweat and Passion

Yet, the significance of wheelchair basketball extends beyond physical therapy. Allan's younger days were marked by missed opportunities and social isolation due to his condition. He reminisces about the absence of a wheelchair and his ignorance about wheelchair basketball during his school years, which resulted in missing out on extracurricular activities. Today, as he trains alongside his basketball comrades, deep friendships have blossomed. One particular teammate has grown into a close friend, sharing dinners and lending a helping hand with errands.

When Art Meets Sport: Elvin Ng's Collaboration

Notably, actor Elvin Ng recognized and joined forces with Allan Tan for a collaborative project. Elvin lauded Allan's resilience and unwavering dedication to both art and sports. He emphasized that Allan's disability had never deterred him from his passions. Together, they crafted a captivating series of paintings that artfully melded their talents.

An Everlasting Inspiration

Allan Tan's journey is a shining example of the triumph of determination and passion over physical challenges. It serves as a reminder that life's greatest doors often open when we steadfastly pursue our dreams, undeterred by obstacles.