Aside from designing the cover of our latest quarterly print guide to the Lion City, street artist Zul Othman also spills the beans on the local arts scene, his favourite hangout spots and more.
Also known by the moniker ZERO, Zul Othman is a renowned visual and urban artist who was awarded the 2013 Young Artist Award, one of Singapore’s most prestigious awards for young artists. Here, he tells us about Singapore’s arts scene, places you should check out on our lil’ red dot, and even the exclusive cover art he drew for our Jan-Mar ’17 issue of Singapore Insider!
The art scene in Singapore is…
definitely on the rise. Spaces such as the National Gallery Singapore have added a new dimension to the city’s artistic landscape through its showcase of regional art. Marquee art events like the Singapore Biennale and Art Stage Singapore are also becoming institutions of their own.
Kampong Glam…
is a great place to see street art in Singapore. Yes, we have them here in Singapore! I have a mural in the neighbourhood, around Bugis Street. You can also see more works at Somerset Skate Park, as well as along Everton Road.
To experience Singapore like a local…
I recommend staying in a cultural precinct like Chinatown and Kampong Glam, and explore the city on foot or use public transport. Spend some time in Little India; eat chapati (flatbread) or biryani (Indian mixed rice dish) with your hands. Navigate the alleyways in the neighbourhoods. There are always interesting discoveries when you trod down the unbeaten path.
For great souvenirs…
head to Naiise and Supermama. These stores have an array of cool locally designed products with unique Singaporean flavour and identity.
My favourite place in Singapore is…
around King George’s Avenue and Lavender Street; I’ve been living in the neighbourhood for the past eight to nine years. It’s sandwiched between the bustling Jalan Besar and Victoria Street, with 24-hour shopping mall Mustafa Centre just 10 minutes away. The area is also peppered with trendy cafes such as 5th Quarter and The Refinery.
This Singapore Insider cover is…
inspired by a tattoo flash sheet. One can also see it as sticker sheet. It’s made up of my stylised portraits along with various icons and images of the cultural and artistic nuances of Singapore.
Singapore Insider is published quarterly, in partnership with Singapore Tourism Board. Pick up the printed edition for free at Singapore Visitor Centres island-wide, including Orchard (junction of Cairnhill Road and Orchard Road), orchardgateway, ION Orchard (Level 1 Concierge), and Chinatown Visitor Centre (2 Banda Street), or download the digital version.
