SINGAPORE'S TOP ART HOTSPOTS
One of the many reasons I am so proud to call Singapore my adopted home is the vibrant and diverse art scene here. There are so many venues around the city where you can take in contemporary artworks by local and international artists, and many of those places offer regularly changing exhibitions, workshops, art events, and even chances to meet with the artists themselves. These are a few of my favourite places in Singapore to get inspired.
Gillman Barracks
Housed in a collection of colonial buildings in a former military camp, Gillman Barracks has 17 art galleries to peruse. They showcase contemporary artists who are at the forefront of the art world in Asia and beyond, so the works you see here are sure to be innovative and thought provoking. Everyone is welcome to visit the galleries, and they also offer guided tours on weekends, regular gallery nights and artist talks.
Address: 9 Lock Road
LASALLE College of the Arts
Where better to see the most current contemporary art than an art college where students are immersed in their craft? The LASALLE College of the Arts is home to the Institute of Contemporary Arts Singapore, which is comprised of seven galleries that have rotating exhibitions of international artists as well as curriculum-related projects by LASALLE students. The galleries are open from 10am to 6pm, Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is free of charge.
Address: 1 McNally Street
Singapore Tyler Print Institute
From screen printing with spices to 3D paper installations, thread drawings and flexible paper pulp sculptures, the Singapore Tyler Print Institute (STPI) showcases unique works by artists who push the boundaries of contemporary art making with alternative methods and materials. The residency programme brings in leading artists from around the world, and the workshops allow art lovers of all ages to learn about the creative processes the artists employ.
Address: 41 Robertson Quay
Singapore Art Museum
Since opening in 1996, the Singapore Art Museum has accumulated one of the world's largest public collections of contemporary Southeast Asian artworks. Here you will find everything from modern paintings to multimedia installations, avant garde films and experimental photographs. The museum also offers art events like family nights, hands-on workshops, lecture series, and a film festival.
Address: 71 Bras Basah Road
The Wessex Estate
The Wessex Estate is a cluster of Colonial homes which has also become somewhat of a hub for artists, many of which chose to live and work there. If you are interested in visiting, keep an eye on the ArtWalk@Wessex Facebook page where you can find upcoming dates for studio viewings.
Address: Portsdown Road
www.facebook.com/ArtWalkWessex
The Substation
This diverse art space showcases all types of creative artists from dancers to musicians, poets and visual artists. This means that on any given day you can expect to find plays, contemporary dance performances, painting and photography exhibitions, screenings of works by first-time filmmakers, installations and rock concerts here
Address: 45 Armenian Street
The Peranakan Museum
The Peranakan Museum explores the Peranakan Culture in South East Asia. You will find it along Armenian Street in the old Tao Nan Chinese School which was built in 1912. The museum is a part of the Asian Civilisation Museum and run by the National Heritage board, you will find regular exhibitions and events. Check out their website for more details.
Address: 39 Armenian St
Clare Haxby Studio
Of course I couldn’t leave out my own beloved Black and White Studio & Gallery! Following a successful show at the The American Club, I have now resumed my Open Days again, so you can come visit me at the studio to view my Singapore Landmarks pieces as well as my new Ginger Lily Collection. The next Open Day is on March 13th, however you can also get in touch to make an appointment for a private viewing.
Address: 41 Malcolm Road
www.clarehaxby.com/studio-visits