Vertical Submarine is an artist collective consisting of three members, Fiona Koh, Joshua Yang and Justin Loke. The collective’s artworks are often societal commentaries, presented in a playful and interactive manner, whereby the viewer is invited to explore and uncover hidden meanings. The collective has won three awards since its formation in 2003, including the inaugural President’s Young Talents 2009 Credit Suisse Artist Residency Award. It has participated in local projects and exhibitions, including the Singapore Art Show 2007 and the annual Zouk event, Zoukout 2008 and 2009. The project was conceived in relation to the space it was first installed: in the heart of Singapore’s shopping district. Mimicking a product launch, letter templates carrying an expression of love are showcased, making it effortless for anyone to send a ‘personalized’ letter. This work is a commentary on consumerism and the extent of commodification, such that even personalized items can be purchased off the rack.
