Cover image via Purple Tran/Heritage SG Memories (Facebook)
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In Singapore's bustling Pek Kio neighbourhood near Farrer Park, one elderly uncle is quietly creating something magical
And no, it's not the kind of art you'll find in museums or tourist brochures.
Instead, it's right there on the pavement, made entirely from twigs.
The man behind the art is Uncle Thien, a resident of Owen Road, and a low-key local legend who has been spotted for years quietly arranging fallen sticks into portraits along the sidewalks for years.
Earlier this week, his work resurfaced in the Heritage SG Memories Facebook group, and once again, a timely reminder that even the simplest things can be seriously beautiful.
"This lovely uncle who uses stray sticks to create art every morning around Pek Kio area. He is definitely a heritage fixture that we enjoy seeing when we are lucky to, and will miss one day," wrote Facebook user Purp Tran.
"Pretty certain to say, that there won't be another quite like him." ❤️
No chalk, no paint, no hashtags. Just twigs and a whole lot of patience.
Using only fallen branches and bits of nature he finds nearby, Uncle Thien creates stunning portraits and outlines that look like they were sketched by hand, except they're completely temporary.
A single gust of wind or an early jogger could erase them in seconds.
And yet, he keeps doing it. Morning after morning.
People began sharing their own encounters with him
One commenter said, "That's art. I couldn't even draw an apple during art class using a pencil."
Another added, "Thanks for sharing this. It's a lovely reminder to appreciate the little things in life."
Here are all the photos others have captured of Uncle Thien in his element:
But it's not just his art that people love. Those who've seen him at work say that Uncle Thien is soft-spoken and kind.
One commenter said, "If you smile at him and give him a thumbs up, he will smile back happily." No fuss, no ego, just pure uncle energy.
Malaysians might just be discovering Uncle Thien's twig art, but Singaporeans have known and loved him for a while
Back in 2020, he was featured by Singapore's Member of Parliament Alvin Tan, who shared more about his story on Facebook.
Turns out, twigs aren't the only medium he works with.
According to a feature by Mothership.sg, during the COVID-19 lockdown, Uncle Thien started painting using coffee.
He also creates pencil portraits and other art on paper, proving that his creativity goes way beyond just the pavement.
