With a penchant for the figurative form, Syamil Dasuki bin Osman was trained at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), specialising in sculpture. He graduated with a Diploma in Fine Art in 2014 and was taught by Singaporean sculptor and NAFA lecturer, Lim Soo Ngee. As a student, he participated in bronze casting field trips to Guangzhou, China and in 2013, Verona Bronze Foundry, Italy. Blending his foundational skills and techniques with contemporary concepts, Syamil often experiments with different materials in his body of work.

Thinking Baby is a series of 50 wax babies made in conjunction with the ‘SG50 Baby Jubilee gift’ state campaign. Syamil was inspired by baby figures, representing continued existence and a symbol for living. Employing mould-making techniques and batik wax, he was interested in using wax to convey his concept of procreation. This installation evaluates the association between Singapore and nationalism. Here, the artist posits: what does it mean for the nation to reward the parents of jubilee babies upon their contribution to the population, and what can others do to contribute to the country? This work was featured in Flagship Genius 2015, an annual exhibition showcasing works by NAFA students, recent graduates and alums.