Martin See Tho was 32 when he became a wheel-chair bound victim of Machado Joseph Disease, an incurable degenerative disorder that robbed him of his career, dignity and gradually, all his physical abilities.
However, he persevered through all odds and adversity, and learned digital painting at age 36. The journey was never smooth for Martin, but through unwavering faith, arduous work and tenacity, he eventually emerged as a true victor and gained recognition as a Singapore Signature Artist in 2007. Martin passed away peacefully in 2009 at age 40, leaving behind a legacy of 160 digital artworks which he created during the most despairing last lap of his life.
This book is Martin’s poignant, intensely moving testimony of living life to the fullest till the very last moment visualised by his Art. It is a compilation of hope, optimism and immeasurable grit, made possible only by the sheer and unflinching love and conviction of a wife, caregiver, and soulmate, Sandra Choo.
“I was struck by Martin’s use of strong and vibrant colours to express his inner world. Most of his paintings demonstrate very bold lines that criss-cross and dance around in tension, creating multiple spaces for creative expressions. His total works together form a rhapsody in celebrating hope, creative passion and personal breakthrough…”
—Ms Claire Chiang Co-Founder of Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, and Chairperson of National Book Development Council of Singapore (Singapore Book Council)
“This book is a wonderful initiative by Sandra, it is a work of love. I hope Martin’s courage and perseverance will be a source of inspiration for others, especially our young, to always strive for their dreams and never give up in the face of adversity.”
—Mr Chee Hong Tat Senior Minister of State for Ministry of Health and Ministry of Communications and Information
Sandra Choo is a bilingual author who wrote “Love and Compassion”, 《爱与慈》and “Ward 43”.
Through the narration of her son’s encounters and interactions with Jerry Tay, Sandra hopes that this art book can give motivation, inspiration and values to many, especially the youth, that their altruistic qualities will shine brightly in all their endeavours in life.
