Audrey Hepburn gets samsui makeover in Amoy Street mural

Walk past 55 Amoy Street and a bright turquoise wall featuring Mona Lisa's eyes is bound to catch your gaze.

- Srinidhi Ragavendran

You might also spot British actress Audrey Hepburn donning a red hat like those worn by samsui women, or Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer's Girl With A Pearl Earring balancing baskets like a labourer.

This mural, blending Singaporean and Western iconography, was painted over six days by Spanish artist Mark Rios, 37, alongside four fine arts students from Lasalle College of the Arts, University of the Arts Singapore. It was completed on March 12.

Rios flew from Barcelona to Singapore to paint the mural. Commissioned by an affiliate of Clifton Partners, a real estate investment firm, the artwork is the latest addition to the row of heritage shophouses.

The firm collaborated closely with Rios, sharing insights into Singapore's cultural elements to inspire his design. Its intention is to showcase a unique mural with a modern take on masterpieces, along with interesting Singaporean elements.

Rios says: "For instance, I think Audrey Hepburn, one of the first iconic movie stars, is a symbol of female empowerment. That also aligns with the samsui women, who helped build this community."