CCAs of NTU 25’: Nanyang Arts Ensemble
Written by: Tia Cai Ping, Vice-President
Imagine this: It’s been a long, stressful day at school, you’ve been rushing assignments and deadlines, and you just need somewhere to sit and destress. For me, Nanyang Arts Ensemble was this place. Doing crafts has always been something that I have held near and dear to my heart, and being able to do so in a judgment-free zone with like-minded individuals only makes it more dear to me.
Despite our name, we are not a performing arts group, but rather a family of arts and crafts enthusiasts who aim to share our love for art with the wider community. We welcome experienced individuals and beginners alike. From beaded rings to dreamcatchers to crochet coasters, we run a wide range of workshops almost biweekly throughout the semester. Each session is beginner-friendly, casual and hands-on, with no need for experience required! With how hectic university life can be, NAE is the perfect place for students to chill and unwind, create something with pride and simply enjoy the company of fellow crafters.
Each semester, we host around 5 workshops (meaning 10 workshops each academic year), each focused on a different craft. Some of our past sessions included: paper quilling, moru doll-making, DIY pom pom birds and more! All materials are provided during each session, and each workshop is taught by our artistic officers who are always ready to lend a hand if the need arises, so there is no need to worry about falling behind.
Signing up as a member does not mean that you are required to attend every session. You get to choose to attend whichever workshops interest you, and can attend as many or as few as you like. Membership is $10 for the entire academic year, and gives you access to all workshops at no additional cost. Students who sign up for membership also receive a welcome gift! For non-members who wish to attend a session, it is $4 per workshop. Sign-ups for each workshop are released in advance on our Telegram and Instagram, with limited slots due to material prep.
Outside of our regular workshops, we might also take part in events like Heritage week, where we had a Batik bookmark-making activity, or collaborate with other welfare services clubs to host art-jamming events.
The best part about the club? Definitely the people and the energy. Our sessions are small, warm, and interactive. It is a tight-knit community (no pun intended), and the vibes are always chill with no pressure to perform.
If you are looking for something to take your mind off studies, this is the perfect CCA for you. Nanyang Arts Ensemble is a space for you to explore your creativity, meet chill people, and walk away with something you made with your own hands.
You’ll find us at Welcome Week with some of our creations from previous workshops on display. Come say hi, and let us know what you’d love to learn, as we’re always open to new ideas. If you have a strong passion for crafts and wish to spread that joy, you are welcome to join us as a committee member as well!
Other Information:
Follow us @ntu_nae on Instagram for more details about our workshops
