Calling all culture vultures. These art exhibitions are right up your alley!
2023 is looking pretty good, what with new restaurants, cafes and bars to hit, and things to do. How about the art scene, you ask? Well, it’s safe to say we’ve got you. Bookmark this page, art enthusiasts. We’ll be updating regularly with exciting art exhibitions in Singapore throughout the year.
Singapore’s top art exhibitions in 2023
1. Moby Dick: I Am the Devil In Your Heart
Until 9 April
In his third exhibition, Ian Tee taps into the literary classic, Moby Dick. Revolving around the conflict between Captain Ahab and Moby Dick, he reflects on the symbol of the white whale. It’s a goal that you might pursue obsessively – with little chance of success. Going through the psychology of “the chase”, he uses the euphoria of a moment to inspire his paintings. Ian also uses multiple mediums to bring his work to life. The collaging elements of comic strips and prayer cards are held together with bold uses of colour and paint. These are all applied to destroyed aluminium panels.
Moby Dick: I Am the Devil In Your Heart, #02-23, Yavuz Gallery, 9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937
2. A Modern Hierarchy of Needs
Until 13 April
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a common theory of psychology. It explains human motivations based on differing levels of needs, and people fulfil them in a hierarchical order. In many ways, our basic needs remain the same. However, in the eyes of Marc Nair, necessity is no longer the same. While food, water, and shelter are important pillars of survival, there’s now a matter of access to the digital world. Plus, material and immaterial desires affect everyone. This showcase is presented on 10 screens and you’ll find texts pressed against the background of images.
A Modern Hierarchy of Needs, Level 5, BladeRunner Ballroom, Projector X: Picturehouse, The Cathay, 2 Handy Road, Singapore 229233
3. Familiar Smells
1 April – 14 May
Familiar Smells marks Yam Shalev’s second show at Cuturi Gallery. This showcase of his work focuses on personal moments during his trip home to Israel. Browse through paintings of still-life elements like plants, flowers, and food. Yam’s process starts with small sketches to compose the paintings. Then, he moves on to paint with photographs as reference points. His style follows the neat painting of other contemporary artists like Pedro Pedro and Guy Yanai. Each piece is injected with Mediterranean influences from Tel Aviv. You can find them in the charm of the tablecloth to Bauhaus Greek tiles. The signature touch is Yam’s bold saturation of colours which he uses as a form of communication.
Familiar Smells, Cuturi Gallery, 61 Aliwal Street, Singapore 199937
4. Memories in Motion
18 March – 20 May
This exhibition at Woaw Gallery welcomes artist Jade Kim for his debut show in Singapore. The artworks in his solo exhibition “Memories in Motion” feature the character Min, who is heavily inspired by his wife. Taking aspects of his personal life and experiences, he paints Min in several fairy tale settings. We hear that most of the pieces from this exhibition are already sold! This definitely speaks to his dedicated fan base. The use of vibrant colours and fantastical depictions of the paintings pop in the otherwise pristine gallery. Definitely worth a visit to see these works in person.
Memories in Motion by Jade Kim, Woaw Gallery, 4 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069786
5. Sneakertopia: Step Into Street Culture
Until 30 July
Calling all street culture vultures! ArtScience Museum is currently the epicentre of art, culture, fashion, and innovation. This art exhibition, which hails from the US, is taking its first steps into Asia. Over 100 limited-edition sneakers are gathered in one enchanting space. Plus, almost 50 murals, installations, and designs related to entertainment, sports, film, and art are on display. We’re pumped up to get a glimpse of the pieces done by local creatives like Sam Lo, Kristal Melson, and Jahan Loh that celebrate this vibrant street scene.
Sneakertopia: Step Into Street Culture, ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
6. Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
Until 1 October
Have you ever wanted to be a part of a painting? Go ahead and sit in the middle of the iconic Starry Night at Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience. This once-in-a-lifetime showcase is one of the most engaging art exhibitions in Singapore. Travel back in time to the 19th century and delve into the Dutch artist’s most iconic works. Begin your journey with 360-degree projection mapping. The digital art gallery allows you to seat yourself in the midst of Van Gogh’s works. Move on to the VR experience and travel through eight works and their inspirations. You can even walk away with a Van Gogh Starry Night poster! Or snag some merch at the end of the exhibit.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, B1, The Forum, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
7. ACM and Anima Mundi: Chinese Christian art from the Vatican Museums
Until 31 December
Get a glimpse of lesser-known treasures of Christian art made in Asia. This exhibit at the Asian Civilisations Museum gets you up close and personal. Admire how the Catholic church integrates traditional Asian elements into its pieces. It showcases the ingenuity of Asian artisans and craftsmen. The art incorporates foreign aesthetics and ideas to appeal to local audiences. It’s complemented by existing displays from Singapore’s National Collection. What a show of religious harmony and tolerance amid diverse faiths around the world.
ACM and Anima Mundi: Chinese Christian art from the Vatican Museums, Level 2, Christian Art Gallery, 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555
8. Joo Choon Lin: Dance In The Destruction Dance
Until 16 April
Singaporean artist Joo Choon Lin invites you into a sensorial, rich landscape. It challenges perceptions starting with the form, moving on to reality and human consciousness through everyday objects. Joo explores how the present is an illusion and things aren’t always what they seem. Expect immersive installations, performance arts, soundscapes and video productions. The artworks will be activated through a two-part theatrical performance.
Joo Choon Lin: Dance In The Destruction Dance, SAM at Tanjong Pagar Distripark, Gallery 2, 39 Keppel Road, Singapore 089065
9. Future World: Where Art Meets Science
Ongoing
We know that just about everyone’s been to this IG-worthy permanent exhibition at ArtScience Museum. And for good reason! We’re happy to report that they’ve upgraded the space with new works. In collaboration with the international art collective teamLab, the museum now offers three new installations. The new collection is titled Exploring New Frontiers. You’ll find interactive artworks that move and change as you explore. We don’t wanna spoil it for you, so discover the excitement for yourself at the museum!
Future World: Where Art Meets Science, ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
10. Museum of Ice Cream
Ongoing
We scream for ice cream! The lush enclave of Dempsey is home to the world-famous Museum of Ice Cream. Originating from New York City, the museum is known for its interactive, ‘gram-friendly exhibits. The Singapore outpost features 14 never-before-seen installations. Start at the sprinkle pool before exploring a pink and yellow jungle filled with 10,000 bananas. And what’s a museum about ice cream without the icy treat? As you’re guided through the pastel wonderland, you’ll be treated to unique ice cream treats.
Museum of Ice Cream, 100 Loewen Road, Singapore 248837
Get your dose of art and culture at these art exhibitions in Singapore!
