A stamp exhibition is the climax for many a collector as he finally completes his collection and displays it. The Association of Singapore Philatelists has planned a National Youth exhibition to be held this year from 19 to 22 September at the Singapore Conference Hall. The exhibition which is open to all youths up to 21 years old, will give young collectors an opportunity to compete and gain experience before participating and winning honours on the international scene. Exhibits which attain at least a Silver-Bronze medal at the national level can be eligible to compete internationally.
Singapore Telecom is the main sponsor of the exhibition. A special stamp issue, Bird Series - Garden Birds (see page 1) will be released on 19 September to coincide with the opening. About 120 frames holding some 40 exhibitors' collections are expected. There will also be special displays of non-competitive exhibits.
This exhibition has a separate section to encourage the collecting of the stamps of the Republic of Singapore ie stamps issued after 1965. Adults can compete under this "Modern Singapore" section. Here is an opportunity for innovative collectors to come up with new ideas of displaying their work within the framework of exhibiting rules. Collecting these issues is a stepping stone towards older material and consequently higher awards.
Judging of the entries will be carried out the night before the opening of the exhibition. Successful competitors can look forward to receiving medals. Special prizes will also be awarded for outstanding entries. There will be a Best Youth Exhibit Award among the Large Vermeil awardees.
The logo of Singpex Youth 91 exhibition has been designed by a newcomer to our collecting field. The notion of a stamp exhibition is conveyed through the perforation of a corner stamp margin while the red and white colours denote the national level of the exhibition. The year "91" incorporates a stylised "Y" representing "Youth". The lion head represents the modern Singapore section of the exhibition.
Singapore Telecom will set up a booth to sell philatelic products and to offer basic postal services. More than 20 participating stamp dealers will provide their wares from which philatelists can enhance their collections. There will also be a "Youth Corner" where quizzes will be held and prizes awarded. Young and new collectors can also get advice on collecting. Do keep the dates free and make it a point to learn from the exhibits, enjoy and immerse yourselves in the fascinating world of stamp collecting.
By Dr Chua Eu Tiong, Chairman (Organising Committee for Singpex Youth 91)
