Calling all culture vultures. These art exhibitions in Singapore are right up your alley!
2024 has been treating us with myriad activities what with new restaurants, cafes and bars to hit up, 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 2024
1. The World of Studio Ghibli
4 October 2024 – 2 February 2025
Calling all Studio Ghibli fans! The highly anticipated exhibition is finally here. This is the studio’s first showcase in Singapore, featuring innovative animation, storytelling, and iconic characters that have touched our hearts for nearly 40 years. Explore 11 galleries that’ll take you on a journey through beloved films like My Neighbour Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, and Howl’s Moving Castle.
The World of Studio Ghibli, ticket prices start at $24, Artscience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
2. Teo Eng Seng: We’re Happy. Are You Happy?
Until 2 February 2025
In the latest instalment of the National Gallery Singapore’s SG Artist series, veteran artist Teo Eng Seng showcases his new exhibition highlighting local and global events from the mid-20th century. Divided into two sections, this exhibition invites you to explore Teo’s unique artistic style, inspired by his experiences and observations.
Teo Eng Seng: We’re Happy. Are You Happy?, National Gallery Singapore, 1 St. Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957
3. Monet Inside
Until 31 December 2024
Monet’s masterpieces come to life during this 30-minute visual autobiography narrated by his longtime friend and art dealer, Paul Durand-Ruel. Pick a spot in the massive space and watch over 200 artworks come to life on grand screens towering six meters high. You won’t be able to walk around during the show (you’ll get a 15-minute photo sesh after) but the poignant storytelling will leave you in awe.
Monet Inside, Level 3, Parkview Square, 600 North Bridge Road, Singapore 188778
4. Everyday Practices
Until 20 July 2025
Singapore Art Museum (SAM) unveils its new gallery at Tanjong Pagar Distripark with the exhibition Everyday Practices. Featuring works from 19 artists and one collective across 10 Asian countries, this exhibition draws inspiration from Tehching Hsieh’s One Year Performance 1978–1979 and explores the themes of “everyday,” “repetition,” and “endurance.” The artworks highlight how daily routines and lived experiences transform into powerful statements of resilience.
Everyday Practices, Tanjong Distripark, #01-02, 39 Keppel Road, Singapore 089065
5. Batik Nyonyas: Three Generations of Art and Entrepreneurship
Until 31 August 2025
We love batik fashion but do you know the rich history behind the garment? This exhibition tells the incredible story of three generations of visionary Peranakan women who transformed batik into a thriving business. From intricate hand-drawn patterns to bold, unexpected colours, these women were true pioneers in their craft. With over 200 stunning batik pieces on display, plus interactive stations where you can discover your own batik style, the exhibition has plenty to keep you hooked. Add in a contemporary art twist, and it’s the perfect mix of tradition and modern creativity.
Batik Nyonyas: Three Generations of Art and Entrepreneurship, Special Exhibition Gallery, Peranakan Museum, 39 Armenian Street, Singapore 179941
6. Play:Date – Unlocking Cabinets of Play
Until 5 January 2025
Step into a world of nostalgic fun at the National Museum of Singapore’s Play:Date – Unlocking Cabinets of Play. This toy-themed showcase brings together local artists and collectors to celebrate the joy of childhood toys across generations. Explore large-scale artworks, interactive exhibits, and over 250 toys from the ’80s to today, including Hot Wheels, Barbie dolls, and retro gaming consoles. You can even design your own digital avatar and play arcade-inspired games.
Play:Date – Unlocking Cabinets of Play, 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897
7. Pagoda Odyssey 1915: From Shanghai to San Francisco
31 May 2024 – 1 June 2025
Reuniting a stunning collection of 84 hand-carved model pagodas over a century apart, this exhibition takes you on a tour from Shanghai to San Francisco. Each model, intricately crafted and based on real structures, showcases the rich diversity of iconic pagodas across different regions and historical periods, offering a glimpse into China’s architectural heritage.
Alongside Towers of Faith, a photography display of religious landmarks in Singapore, and Journey into the Pagoda, a thrilling virtual reality experience, Pagoda Odyssey promises an immersive exploration through time and culture.
Pagoda Odyssey 1915: From Shanghai to San Francisco, Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555
8. Figuring A Scene
5 April – 1 December 2024
Unravel the secrets behind understanding artworks through nature’s lens at the National Gallery Singapore’s upcoming exhibition, Figuring a Scene. Dr. Patrick Flores, Deputy Director of Curatorial and Research at National Gallery Singapore, leads the way in this innovative showcase, where each artwork is dissected into six elemental episodes, challenging viewers to explore interpretations through unique perspectives.
From the activism-driven shadows of Malaysian artist Sharon Chin’s Creatures on the Move to the cultural odyssey depicted in durian-themed art, immerse yourself in a world where art meets nature in unexpected ways.
Figuring a Scene, Dalam Southeast Asia, UOB Southeast Asia Gallery, National Gallery Singapore, Singapore 178957
9. {still} life by Space Objekt
Until 9 March 2025
Get ready to experience {still} life, a mind-bending exhibition that will turn your perspective upside down – literally! Reflective surfaces of all shapes and sizes invite you to take a peek and venture into a world of unexpected encounters. Look down, and you’ll find yourself gazing at the sky; look up, and behold the ground beneath your feet. These cleverly positioned mirrors act as picture frames, unveiling the stark contrasts between the old and the new, the natural and the manmade, the public and the private. You’ll be drawn closer to the hidden gems and forgotten treasures, as the past comes alive in the present. {still} life captures the essence of Singapore’s urban spirit, where history and innovation collide in a whirlwind of views that will leave you in awe.
{still} life by Space Objekt, Duxton Plain Park, Entrance at Yan Kit Road, Public outdoor work, New Bridge Road, Singapore 089140
10. Borealis: Experience the northern lights amidst our Supertrees
Ongoing
Northern lights in Singapore? You read that right. Created by Swiss artist Dan Acher, Borealis blends layers of light and cloud particles to replicate the magic of the aurora borealis. To enhance the experience, it features an atmospheric soundtrack by French composer Guillaume Desbois. See sit back, relax, and enjoy the magical projections.
Borealis: Experience the northern lights amidst our Supertrees, free admission, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
11. Textile Masters to the World: The Global Desire for Indian Cloth
Ongoing
Get ready for Textile Masters to the World: The Global Desire for Indian Cloth, where exquisite garments and fabrics will transport you from India to the farthest corners of the world and back again. Step into the Fashion and Textiles Gallery and be dazzled by 27 breathtaking pieces that carry the historic legacy of Indian textile production. From the 14th to 19th century, these fabrics were like cultural ambassadors, traversing continents and creating connections between India, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe!
You’re also getting an exclusive look as these textile treasures haven’t been showcased in over a decade. Prepare to be enchanted as the showcase reveals trade, fashion, furnishing, gift exchanges, and cherished heirlooms.
Textile Masters to the World: The Global Desire for Indian Cloth, Fashion and Textiles Gallery, L3, Asian Civilisations Museum 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555
12. 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
13. 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
All the exhibitions you missed
14. Goddess: Brave. Bold. Beautiful.
6 April – 11 August 2024
Screen legends from Hollywood to Bollywood take centre stage at Goddess: Brave. Bold. Beautiful. Celebrating 120 years of moving image history, this exhibition pays tribute to the fearless lady superstars who have challenged stereotypes and broken down boundaries. Get up close to original costumes worn by icons like Marilyn Monroe and Zhang Ziyi, and catch behind-the-scenes footage that brings their stories to life.
From Michelle Yeoh’s martial arts mastery to Laverne Cox’s advocacy for marginalised communities, Goddess showcases the inspiring journeys of cinematic heroes. Explore the rich cinematic heritage of Hollywood, Hong Kong, Bollywood, and beyond, and discover how film has shaped culture and society around the world.
Goddess: Brave. Bold. Beautiful., ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
15. Fukusa: Japanese Gift Covers from the Chris Hall Collection
19 April – 25 August 2024
Embark on a journey of cultural discovery with Fukusa: Japanese Gift Covers from the Chris Hall Collection. Delve into the fascinating world of Japanese silk gift covers, known as fukusa, and uncover their significance in the art of gifting across histories and cultures. With over 80 exquisite fukusa, kimonos, and textiles on display, this exhibition celebrates the craft, trade, and exchange of gifts, from the 18th century to the present day.
Explore how fukusa evolved from ceremonial objects for the ruling class to popular commodities in the global market, and discover their parallels with fashion and gift-giving customs in other cultures.
Fukusa: Japanese Gift Covers from the Chris Hall Collection, Peranakan Museum, 39 Armenian Street, Singapore 179941
16. Frida Forever
4 May – 1 September 2024
Dip your toes into the vibrant world of Frida Kahlo at ArtScience Museum’s Frida Forever exhibition. Immerse yourself in the life and art of the iconic Mexican artist through two captivating exhibitions and a lineup of engaging programs. Discover the raw emotion and powerful symbolism behind Frida’s self-portraits, as she fearlessly tackles themes of womanhood, identity, and resilience.
Experience her visionary world like never before with Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon, an immersive journey through her life using historical photographs, digital art, and interactive installations. Then, explore the intimate details of Frida at Laid Bare: Frida’s Inner World, curated with insights from her niece, Cristina Kahlo Alcalá, shedding light on her medical history and its profound impact on her art. Don’t miss the chance to step inside Frida’s paintings with the extraordinary virtual reality experience, Exquisite Corpse.
Frida Forever, ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
17. Your Curious Journey
10 May – 22 September 2024
Acclaimed artist Olafur Eliasson brings us an artistic adventure through his first major solo exhibition in Southeast Asia. With 17 artworks showcasing Eliasson’s diverse oeuvre, including never-before-seen pieces and Singapore-exclusive installations, this exhibition in Singapore promises an unforgettable experience.
From thought-provoking explorations of perception and experience to urgent calls for climate action, Eliasson’s works will ignite your curiosity and inspire you to see the world in a whole new light.
Your Curious Journey, SAM at Tanjong Distripark, #01-02, 39 Keppel Road, Singapore 089065
18. Olivia Fraser: A Journey Within
10 May – 13 July 2024
It’s a journey of spiritual exploration with acclaimed artist Olivia Fraser’s mesmerising debut in Singapore. Tap into Fraser’s enchanting world where spirituality meets artistry, as she melds the rich traditions of Indian miniature painting with repetitive meditative motifs. Through intricate jewel-toned works, Fraser invites viewers on an inward journey inspired by ancient Sanskrit texts and her own yogic practice. Immerse yourself in the captivating allure of her delicate forms and hypnotic patterns, and experience a tranquil escape from the physical world.
Olivia Fraser: A Journey Within, #01–05, Sundaram Tagore Gallery, Gillman Barracks, 5 Lock Road, Singapore 108933
19. Ocean Fest 2024: Righting The Future with S.E.A. Aquarium
20 May – 19 July 2024
Go under the sea with Singapore’s marine wonderland and get inspired to protect our precious ocean with this new exhibition. From breathtaking encounters with sea creatures captured by an award-winning nature photographer to uncovering the vital role of native horseshoe crabs, there’s something for everyone. Discover the poignant tales of those who’ve witnessed the beauty of our seas firsthand, and let their memories inspire you to take action.
Plus, don’t miss out on the chance to play Marine Conservation Quest, where you’ll help guide marine animals through a polluted ocean using knobs and levers, making every move count.
Ocean Fest 2024: Righting The Future with S.E.A. Aquarium, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa, Singapore 098269
Get your dose of art and culture at these art exhibitions in Singapore!
