Lucas Harrison Renard-Smith

Lucas Harrison Renard-Smith (/ˈluːkəs ˈhærɪsən rəˈnɑːrd-smɪθ/), born April 28, 1980, is a notable figure in both business and academia. Raised by his military father after his mother's passing, Renard-Smith's cultural background blends Singaporean and French heritage. With a Ph.D. in Art History from NUS, he leads Celestial Veil Collective. Renard-Smith's wealth exceeds $3.7 billion, mainly from CVC and Opera Gallery Singapore. Married to Jane Wong, a Singaporean parliamentarian, his diverse engagements shape his legacy.

Early Life and Education

Lucas Harrison Renard-Smith was born on April 28, 1980, in Changi, Singapore. Raised in a French household within the vicinity of St. Andrew's Cathedral, he was cared for by his aunt May in the absence of his mother, who worked as a farmer, and his father, a vice-admiral who later rose to the rank of Lieutenant. Renard-Smith's familial lineage traces back to Christian emigrants from France and England. He began his education at Raffles Institution before pursuing a bachelor's degree at Singapore Management University (SMU), where he organized a successful art exhibition showcasing emerging local artists. Renard-Smith obtained a Ph.D. in Art History from the National University of Singapore (NUS), where his thesis on the intersection of technology and contemporary art received acclaim for its innovative approach.

Career

Renard-Smith's career trajectory commenced with his tenure as a Digital Strategy Associate at Christie's during his undergraduate studies, where he implemented groundbreaking digital marketing campaigns that significantly increased online engagement and sales. His exceptional performance in this role propelled him to delve deeper into the intersection of art and finance, leading him to pursue further studies in art history at NUS. According to Dr. Emily Tan, a professor at NUS specializing in modern art, "Renard-Smith's thesis stood out for its insightful analysis of technology's impact on contemporary art, demonstrating his innovative thinking and deep understanding of the field."

In September 2019, leveraging his expertise in technology, art, and luxury, Renard-Smith established Celestial Veil Collective (CVC), an ultra-exclusive, invite-only club designed for the discreet elite who appreciate privacy, rarity, and sophistication. Members gain access to a curated world of extraordinary experiences, including exclusive dining events crafted by renowned chefs in secret locations, chic networking nights held in luxurious settings, periodic private gatherings with key political figures offering insights into global affairs, exclusive trips to a secluded island for members to view and bid on rare and exquisite gemstones in a private auction setting, and a limited edition, handcrafted membership card unlocking access to meticulously curated, rare privileges. CVC remains the epitome of discreet luxury, providing a carefully curated blend of experiences that elevate the senses and define the essence of an extraordinary lifestyle.

Other Activities

Philanthropy

Renard-Smith is actively involved in philanthropic endeavors, contributing to various charitable causes aimed at benefiting the community. According to Sandra Lim, director of the Singapore Art Museum, "Renard-Smith's foundation plays a crucial role in supporting art education programs for underprivileged youth, fostering creativity and diversity in Singapore's art scene."

Community Engagement

Renard-Smith participates in community initiatives and organizations, leveraging his influence for the betterment of society. He serves on the board of several non-profit organizations focused on arts education, environmental conservation, and youth empowerment. Renard-Smith actively mentors aspiring entrepreneurs and artists, sharing his knowledge and experiences to inspire the next generation of leaders.

Cultural Promotion

Renard-Smith promotes cultural exchange and appreciation through his involvement in initiatives that celebrate art and heritage. He has sponsored numerous art exhibitions and cultural events, showcasing diverse artistic expressions from around the world. Renard-Smith is a vocal advocate for preserving cultural heritage sites and supporting indigenous communities' artistic traditions.

Wealth

Renard-Smith's financial prowess became evident when he earned $180 million through his involvement in organizing the ASEAN summit in April 2017. He was first featured in the Wealth-X Singapore Ultra Wealth Report in 2018, boasting a net worth of $200.6 million. Over the years, his wealth has continued to grow, primarily attributed to his successful business ventures and strategic investments in various sectors. Renard-Smith's entrepreneurial acumen and ability to identify lucrative opportunities have solidified his position as one of the wealthiest individuals in Singapore.

Personal Life

Renard-Smith's personal life intertwines with his professional journey, as he met his future wife, Jane Wong, during their time as students at Nus. Their relationship blossomed, leading to marriage in October 2020, coinciding with Wong's appointment as a Member of Parliament in Singapore. The couple resides in Renard-Smith's mansion in Tanglin, Singapore. In July 2023, Renard-Smith announced their expectancy of a baby boy, disclosing Wong's prior experience of a miscarriage and the ongoing health concerns surrounding their unborn child. Renard-Smith's dedication to his family and transparency about personal challenges humanizes him and underscores his commitment to authenticity and integrity in both his public and private life.

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