Popular singer and comedian Dean Martin and water-colour painter Eddy Lim have something in common.
It’s all about memories.
The American vocalist, with the backing of the band “The Easy Riders” made the song “Memories Are Made of This” so popular in 1955 that he became a worldwide fame.
Lim, with the support of the famed Cultural Medallion winner and self-taught Ong Kim Seng, plied his unique trade with the sole intention of stirring memories.
Lim’s latest venture is a grand painting of Tanah Merah Country Club’s Garden course which, he believes, should “have life” even after it closes in 2035.
The iconic Garden course, which has staged many major tournaments like the HSBC Women’s Champions and Lexus Cup, has been a landmark layout since its inauguration in 1983.
And it should be etched in memory once the land lease expires in nine years’ time, says Lim.
He has been an active member of the club, which makes the iconic course especially meaningful and memorable to him.
He drops in at the club two or three times a week, and also regularly takes in golf games during his visits.
The 24-handicapper plays with his friends at both the Garden and Tampines courses, although he prefers the former because it is an easier layout.
Golf aside, the affable Lim also spends time at swimming and karaoke for relaxation and bonding.
On water colour painting, which is not too expensive according to Lim, he finds the hobby which gradually turned into almost a fulltime pursuit, he gains thrill, satisfaction and a therapeutic interest that keeps him busy.
He is head of an office designing company which, of late when he switched to semi-retirement.
Still, with a wealth of contacts and interested buddies, he is an integral cog in the business.
Lim’s passion lies in creating and sharing his artwork, and he has so far sold about 100 of his paintings through the popular US app, Etsy.
Often on the move, Lim looks out for landmarks and landscapes to make them come alive with his handy hobby.
Favourite locations for him in Singapore are Little India and Chinatown where “there are many historical buildings and landmarks,” says Lim.
He found interest in water colouring during his schooldays, and over the years has made it a deep passion that is worth his investment in time and effort.
His works have also found “a home” in houses and places in Canada and Mexico, all sold through the app.
Now that Lim has more time on his hand, he will devote his free periods to more important water colour works, especially during his travels where his water colour items are found in his luggage.
Lim’s omnipresence at the club has been palpable with warmth and friendship to many, especially because he is a simple down-to-earth personality with an imposing charm that brings about true mutual bond and affection.
