THE GALLERY GUIDE J U L– S E P 2 0 17
On cover: Yayoi Kusama. Detail of LIFE IS THE HEART OF A RAINBOW. 2017. Acrylic on canvas. 194 × 194 cm. ŠYayoi Kusama. Courtesy of Ota Fine Arts, Tokyo / Singapore, Victoria Miro Gallery, London, David Zwirner, New York.
Copyright in the content in this brochure may also reside in persons and entities other than, and in addition to the Gallery. The Gallery seeks to share our artworks with as many people as we can. We are fully committed to respecting the intellectual property rights of others and always use our best efforts to obtain permission for artwork images used. Please contact us should you have any queries about this. Unless otherwise mentioned, all artwork images have been provided through the courtesy of National Heritage Board and artworks featured are National Gallery Singapore collection. The Gallery Guide is published by National Gallery Singapore. All rights reserved. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced in part or in whole without written consent of the Gallery. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information within this brochure. However, changes are sometimes unavoidable and the Gallery reserves the right to make modifications to the programmes and ticketing policy without prior notice. Please visit www.nationalgallery. sg for the most updated information. The views and opinions expressed by speakers, facilitators and docents at the workshops and tours do not necessarily represent the position of the Gallery. Published in June 2017. All information is correct at time of print.
CO NTE NT S
JUL–SEP 2017
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2
About the Gallery
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Director’s Message
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Art We Love
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Highlights Calendar
Exhibitions 8
Long-Term Exhibitions
10 Special Exhibitions
Tours
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18 Daily Tours 19 Special Tours 19 Group Tours 19 Gallery Explorer Audio Tours
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Special Events
22 Performances 23 Film
Adult Learning
24 Art Talks 25 Workshops
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Kids & Schools
26 Keppel Centre for Art Education 28 Kids’ Programmes
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Publications
Visit Us
32 Ticketing Information 33 General Information 34 Shopping and Dining
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Support the Gallery
ABOUT THE
GALLERY U N V E I LI N G M O D E R N S I N G A P O R E A N D SOU TH E A S T A S I A N A R T National Gallery Singapore is a visual arts institution which oversees the largest public collection of modern art of Singapore and Southeast Asia. Situated in the heart of the Civic District, the Gallery is housed in two national monuments— City Hall and former Supreme Court—that have been beautifully restored and transformed into this exciting venue. Reflecting Singapore’s unique heritage and geographical location, the Gallery features Singapore and Southeast Asian art from Singapore’s National Collection in its long-term and special exhibitions. The Gallery also works with international museums to jointly present Southeast Asian art in the global context, positioning Singapore as a regional and international hub for the visual arts.
BOARD MEMBERS Hsieh Fu Hua (Chairman) Jose Isidro N (Lito) Camacho Chang Hwee Nee Chew Choon Seng Chong Siak Ching Rosa Daniel Shareen Khattar-Harrison Kwee Liong Seen Dr Kenson Kwok Apinan Poshyananda Dr Suriani Suratman Wee Sin Tho
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DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
Dear friends, 2017 marks one of the most exciting years for art with several international exhibitions in rare alignment—the Venice Biennale, documenta and Skulptur Projekte Münster. Staged every two, five and ten years respectively, these exhibitions are important platforms for artists to showcase their work internationally and engage in wider dialogue with art from around the world. At the opening of the Venice Biennale last month, I was thrilled to see our local artists using this opportunity to uncover some of the region’s rich and complex histories. Zai Kuning exhibited a 17-metre-long ship based on the forgotten stories of the Riau Archipelago and its sea people, while Erika Tan presented two video works giving voice to Halimah Binte Abdullah, a Malay weaver who died while participating in the British Empire Exhibition in 1924. One of the works was filmed in the Gallery before our opening in 2015, and will be shared with visitors through our Gallery Explorer app in July. Key international artists have also had significant encounters with the Venice Biennale in the past. In 1966, Yayoi Kusama created a sensation by selling mirrored spheres to passers-by for $2 on the grounds of the Biennale as a critique on the commercialisation of the art world. This work, Narcissus Garden, can be seen in the City Hall Chamber as part of the exhibition YAYOI KUSAMA: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow. Kusama later became the first solo artist to represent Japan at the Biennale in 1993 and Danh Vo, whose commission is on display at the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery, represented Denmark in 2015. These demonstrate the Gallery’s links to a larger and ever-growing ecology of art, and the ongoing conversations that we respond to through the art we display. We invite you to discover all of this and more at National Gallery Singapore.
Eugene Tan Director, National Gallery Singapore
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ART WE LOVE
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DID YOU KNOW? YAYOI KUSAMA: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow is named after one of the latest paintings in Kusama's My Eternal Soul series. Still ongoing, this series started in 2009 and now comprises over 500 paintings. View 24 of them in Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery C.
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HIGHLIGHTS CALENDAR JULY
1-2 SAT-SUN SPECIAL EVENT (p. 20) Gallery Children's Biennale: Adopt a Flower Other dates: 5–6 & 12–13 Aug, 2–3 Sep
8 SAT
7 FRI SPECIAL EVENT (p. 20) Gallery Children's Biennale: Poetry Performance Other dates: 5 Aug, 9 Sep
ART TALK (p. 24) Nayang Academy of Fine Arts Students’ Presentation In response to Danh Vo's commision
AUGUST
4–5 & 11–12 FRI–SAT
SPECIAL EVENT (p. 20) Civic District Outdoor Festival
5–6 SAT–SUN
FILM (p. 23) Near Equal Kusama Yayoi — I Adore Myself By Takako Matsumoto
Intrude by parerstudio.co
SEPTEMBER
2 SAT
6–10 TUE–SUN
ART TALK (p. 24) The Art of Collecting By Jennifer Lam (Assistant Curator)
SPECIAL EVENT (p. 21) Gallery Children's Biennale: Be afraid only of standing still By Lynn Lu
Pan Tianshou. The Joys of Autumn. Undated.
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13 THU
15 SAT
SPECIAL TOUR (p. 19) YAYOI KUSAMA: Life Is the Heart of a Rainbow By Adele Tan (Curator)
ART TALK (p. 24) Vietnamese Lacquer Painting: Tradition & Transformation By Phi Phi Oanh and Low Sze Wee (Director, Curatorial, Collections and Education)
9 WED
26 SAT
OPEN HOUSE (p. 20) National Day Open House Free general admission
PERFORMANCE (p. 22) Roof Response By LASALLE College of the Arts' School of Dance and Theatre Other dates: 2 Sep, 9 Sep
10 THU
SPECIAL TOUR (p. 19) YAYOI KUSAMA: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow By Russell Storer
27 SUN ART TALK (p. 24) Yayoi Kusama — Lecture By Akira Tatehara Yayoi Kusama. Starry Pumpkin. 2015. Collection of the artist.
(Deputy Director, Curatorial and Collections Development)
8 FRI
SPECIAL TOUR (p. 19) Strokes of Life: The Art of Chen Chong Swee By Grace Tng (Curator)
16 SAT LECTURE (p. 25) From Settlement to Colony: 1819–1940 By Kevin Khoo (Oral History Specialist, National Archives of Singapore)
Other dates: 2 Sep – By Mark Wong 9 Sep – By Fiona Tan
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LONG–TERM EXHIBITIONS SIAPA NAMA KAMU? Art in Singapore since the 19 th Century Ongoing | City Hall Wing, Level 2, DBS Singapore Gallery
Anthony Poon. Black and White. 1970s. Acrylic on canvas. 186 × 186 cm. On display at DBS Singapore Gallery 2.
“Siapa Nama Kamu?” means “What is your name?” The inaugural exhibition of the DBS Singapore Gallery poses this question, inviting visitors to consider how art may relate to issues of self and community, and what it means to look at Singapore through its art. Siapa Nama Kamu? weaves together a rich and captivating narrative of artworks in a broadly chronological sequence, covering Singapore’s art history from the 19th century to the present day. Drawing on close to 400 works, it explores the influences and practices that have shaped and transformed Singapore art. Liu Kang Gallery Located within the DBS Singapore Gallery, this space commemorates pioneer artist Liu Kang’s role in the development of modern art in Singapore. In 2003, Liu Kang (1911–2004) and his wife Chen Jen Pin (1913–2009) generously donated close to 1,000 paintings and works on paper to the National Collection, forming the largest donation of a single artist’s work to the Collection to date. The DBS Singapore Gallery is made possible through a gift by DBS Bank.
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Exhibitions
BETWEEN DECLARATIONS AND DREAMS: Art of Southeast Asia since the 19 th Century Ongoing | Supreme Court Wing, Levels 3–5, UOB Southeast Asia Gallery
Housed in the former Supreme Court building, the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery presents an exhibition on the art of Southeast Asia through shared artistic impulses across the region. Starting in the 19th century, the history of Southeast Asian art is characterised by a continuous encounter with the new, and is inseparably linked to the region’s tumultuous social and political history. The meaning and expression of art was constantly negotiated as artists of Southeast Asia sought to incorporate and reinvent local expressions and aesthetic traditions as they grappled with modernity. Navin Rawanchaikul and Rirkrit Tiravanija. Cities on the Move 6, Bangkok. 1999. Acrylic on canvas. 170 × 120 cm. On display at UOB Southeast Asia Gallery 15.
The UOB Southeast Asia Gallery is made possible through a gift by United Overseas Bank.
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SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS LAW OF THE LAND: HIGHLIGHTS OF SINGAPORE’S CONSTITUTIONAL DOCUMENTS Ongoing | Supreme Court Wing, Level 3, Chief Justice's Chamber & Office
Organised by the National Archives of Singapore (NAS) and the National Library Board (NLB), this exhibition explores the history of Singapore’s constitutional development from a British settlement in 1819 to its emergence as a sovereign republic in 1965. It presents a selection of 23 rare documents from the NAS and NLB's collections, each capturing a key moment in Singapore's legal history and journey to independence. Royal warrant assigning Armorial Ensigns for the Colony of the Straits Settlements, 1948. Image courtesy of National Library Board.
ORGANISED BY
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SUPPORTED BY
NG TENG FONG ROOF GARDEN COMMISSION: DANH VO 4 Nov 2016–31 Aug 2017 | City Hall Wing, Level 5, Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery
Vietnam-born Danish artist Danh Vo presents a series of compelling new sculptures as part of his first outdoor installation in Singapore. Vo’s work often draws upon personal experience to explore broader historical, social or political themes, particularly those relating to the history of Vietnam at the close of the 20th century. A continuation of his existing practice, this installation explores issues of cross-cultural identity and the definition of cultural values. This is the inaugural exhibition of the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Commission series, which invites leading international artists to create site-specific installations at the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery. The Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery is made possible through a gift by Far East Organization.
6–13 Jul | City Hall Wing, Level 5, Rooftop Studios View works made by 12 students from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts' School of Art & Design in response to Danh Vo's commission.
SERIES SPONSOR
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SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS WU GUANZHONG: A WALK THROUGH NATURE 吴冠中：风景哪边好
14 Dec 2016–3 Dec 2017 | City Hall Wing, Level 4, Wu Guanzhong Gallery
Wu Guanzhong. The Yellow Earth Plateau. 1989. Chinese ink and colour on paper. 67.9 x 137.4 cm. Gift of the artist and his family.
Wu Guanzhong travelled widely across China in his lifetime, covering numerous cities and drawing inspiration from the rivers, mountains and towns that he encountered. This exhibition explores 16 works which Wu painted of China from the 1960s until the 2000s. Join Wu on his search for beauty—not only in the landscape, but also within the painted forms in his work. This is the first in a series of exhibitions at the Wu Guanzhong Gallery. On an annual rotation basis, this dedicated space showcases works donated by Wu and his family, within the wider context of ink aesthetics and art history. The most valuable donation ever made to a Singapore museum to date, this is the largest holding of his work in a public museum in the world.
For Kids!
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Look out for the roving Gallery Cart at the Padang Atrium to enjoy fun hands-on activities and learn more about collecting Chinese ink paintings.
STROKES OF LIFE: THE ART OF CHEN CHONG SWEE 生机出笔端：陈宗瑞艺术特展
11 Mar–3 Dec 2017 | City Hall Wing, Level 4 Gallery
Chen Chong Swee was an important early Singapore artist and educator who contributed significantly to the development of the Singapore and Malaya art scenes. He was amongst the first artists in Singapore to incorporate local subjects in his works, depicting Malay village scenes in his ink paintings from as early as the 1930s.
Chen Chong Swee. Fruit Market. 1961. Chinese ink and colour on paper. Collection of Mr and Mrs Chen Chi Sing.
This show features key works from his sixdecade-long career. It highlights his proficiency in both Chinese and Western art traditions as well as his exploration and experimentation with Chinese painting techniques.
REDISCOVERING TREASURES: INK ART FROM THE XIU HAI LOU COLLECTION 袖中有东海：袖海楼水墨藏珍
11 Mar–3 Dec 2017 | City Hall Wing, Level 4, Wu Guanzhong Gallery
The Xiu Hai Lou Collection is the largest and most established private collection of Chinese painting and calligraphy in Singapore today. Founded by the late Yeo Khee Lim, it encompasses a rich variety of styles and genres, including works from different regional schools and esteemed masters. Drawing on close to 100 works from the Collection, this exhibition offers visitors a rare insight into the evolution of modern Chinese painting from tradition to modernity.
Xu Beihong. The Ghost-Catcher Zhong Kui. 1939. Chinese ink and colour on paper. Xiu Hai Lou Collection.
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SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS LISTENING TO ARCHITECTURE: THE GALLERY’S HISTORIES AND TRANSFORMATIONS Ongoing | City Hall Wing, Level 4, ArchiGallery
Photograph of the construction of the former Supreme Court from the personal album of Frank Dorrington Ward, 1939. Image reproduced with permission of Robert Dorrington Ward.
The architecture of the City Hall and former Supreme Court buildings may be imagined as an ongoing conversation between different generations across time. The inaugural exhibition at the ArchiGallery offers insights into the enduring histories and architectural designs of the two national monuments and their dramatic transformations into a home for Southeast Asian art. It also features never-before-seen artefacts excavated from the Gallery’s grounds, and a commissioned sonic artwork by artist Zai Tang that draws on the historical, social and spatial memories created in the buildings.
UNREALISED From Aug 2017 | Accessible only via the Gallery Explorer App
unrealised is a virtual experience, developed in dialogue with three artists—Heman Chong, Ho Tzu Nyen and Erika Tan. It tests the potentials of the digital image within the physical spaces of the Gallery’s long-term displays. To access unrealised, please borrow a Samsung tablet from Visitor Services at Level B1 or download the Gallery Explorer app at the App Store and Google Play store.
Ho Tzu Nyen's Timelines.
Made possible with the support of the Gallery’s Innovation Partner Accenture. 14
Phi Phi Oanh Detail of Pro Se 2017 Lacquer on laminated glass 24 × 18.5 cm Photo by Matthew Dakin, courtesy of the artist
RADIANT MATERIAL: A DIALOGUE IN VIETNAMESE LACQUER PAINTING 5 Jun–3 Sep 2017 | City Hall Wing, Level 3, Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery C
Discover the beauty and versatility of a uniquely Vietnamese approach to modern art painting in this intimate showcase. The exhibition pairs one modern and one contemporary artwork, showing how two artists from different times have experimented with this unusual material. Les Fees (The Fairies) is a monumental work from the 1930s, made by master artist Nguyen Gia Tri (1908–1993), who is known for his dynamic use of lacquer in modern painting. It is paired with Pro Se, a new commission by contemporary artist Phi Phi Oanh (b. 1979), which considers lacquer conceptually and places it in conversation with the way we view images in today’s digital culture. Occupying part of Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery C, this exhibition explores how the qualities of lacquer as material can be a driving force for artistic innovation.
LEAD SPONSOR
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SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS YAYOI KUSAMA: LIFE IS THE HEART OF A RAINBOW 9 Jun–3 Sep 2017 | City Hall Wing, Level 3, Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery
Yayoi Kusama. THE SPIRITS OF THE PUMPKINS DESCENDED INTO THE HEAVENS. 2015. Installation. 600 × 600 × 300 cm. Collection of the artist. ©Yayoi Kusama. Courtesy of Ota Fine Arts, Tokyo/Singapore.
Yayoi Kusama is one of the world’s most influential artists, and has played a crucial role in key art movements of the 20th and 21st centuries. The first major survey of her work in Southeast Asia, this exhibition focuses on the immersive and expansive nature of her practice. Discover Kusama’s creative vision through paintings, sculptures, videos and installations from the 1950s to the present, including works never shown before. Step into her infinity mirror rooms, explore the development of her intricate nets, dots and pumpkin motifs, and encounter new paintings in which the artist continues to push artistic boundaries. For more information, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg/YAYOI-KUSAMA.
LEAD SPONSOR
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PRINCIPAL SUPPORTER
HELD IN
IN COLLABORATION WITH
GALLERY CHILDREN’S BIENNALE: DREAMS & STORIES 20 May–8 Oct 2017 | Various locations | General admission rules apply
Calling the young and young at heart! The first edition of Gallery Children’s Biennale invites you to discover art in a whole new way. Explore dreams and stories through site-specific installations, interactive artworks and a stimulating line-up of music performances, film showcases and art-inspired programmes. For more information, please visit www.childrensbiennale.com.
Chng Seok Tin's Being Yourself.
teamLab's Homogenizing and Transforming World.
Mark Justiniani's Firewalk: A Bridge of Embers.
Tran Trong Vu's The Sonnet in Blue.
DEVELOPMENT PARTNER
EXHIBITION DESIGN SPONSOR
Members of Tote Board Group
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GALLERY TOURS
DAILY TOURS Explore the rich history of our buildings and collections by joining one of our free guided tours led by trained docents. Registration opens 20 minutes before each tour at the Tours Desk located at Level B1. 20 slots are available on a first come, first served basis. All visitors should obtain (or purchase if necessary) an admission ticket before joining a tour. BUILDING HIGHLIGHTS English daily 11am and Sat–Sun 3pm | Mandarin Fri–Sun 11.30am DBS SINGAPORE GALLERY HIGHLIGHTS English daily 2pm & Sat–Sun 10.30am | Mandarin Fri–Sun 2.30pm UOB SOUTHEAST ASIA GALLERY HIGHLIGHTS English daily 3.30pm | Mandarin Fri–Sun 4pm HIGHLIGHTS OF CHEN CHONG SWEE, XIU HAI LOU & WU GUANZHONG EXHIBITIONS English daily noon | Mandarin Sat–Sun 4.30pm LAW OF THE LAND HIGHLIGHTS English Sat 1 Jul, 15 Jul, 5 Aug, 19 Aug, 2 Sep, 16 Sep 4.30pm HIGHLIGHTS OF GALLERY CHILDREN’S BIENNALE: DREAM & STORIES—THE DREAMCATCHERS English Wed & Sat 5pm | Mandarin Sat 8 Jul, 12 Aug, 9 Sep 5.30pm 18
SPECIAL TOURS Tours
Gain deeper insights into the artworks and narratives of the exhibitions on special tours led by our curators. Tickets available through the Gallery and SISTIC websites and ticketing counters. YAYOI KUSAMA: LIFE IS THE HEART OF A RAINBOW Thu 13 Jul | 7.30–8.45pm | $25 Led by Adele Tan (Curator, National Gallery Singapore) Thu 10 Aug | 7.30–8.45pm | $25 Led by Russell Storer (Deputy Director, Curatorial & Collections Development, National Gallery Singapore) STROKES OF LIFE: THE ART OF CHEN CHONG SWEE Fri 8 Sep | 7.30–8.45pm | $25 Led by Grace Tng (Assistant Curator, National Gallery Singapore)
GROUP TOURS COMMUNITY GROUPS The Gallery offers guided tours for community groups at a concessionary rate. For more information, please email community@nationalgallery.sg. CORPORATE OR OTHER GROUPS Please email info@nationalgallery.sg for more information.
GALLERY EXPLORER AUDIO TOURS Download our free Gallery Explorer app to enjoy a short audio tour that provides a fascinating glimpse into Kusama's life and the stories behind selected artworks. Available in English and Japanese. The Explorer also features tours of the Gallery's building history and key works in the long-term exhibitions. Earphones are required to use the Explorer in the Gallery. Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 devices are available for loan from Visitor Services at Level B1. INNOVATION PARTNER
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SPECIAL EVENTS
CIVIC DISTRICT OUTDOOR FESTIVAL Fri–Sat 4–5, 11–12 Aug | 5pm–midnight | Free
This outdoor extravaganza extends the art experience beyond the Gallery’s walls and into the Civic District. Discover eye-catching light installations, theatre performances and pop-up stalls. Don't miss an opportunity to picnic with giant illuminated bunnies!
Intrude by parerstudio.co
NATIONAL DAY OPEN HOUSE Wed 9 Aug | 10am–7pm | Free general admission
Dive into history by taking part in a fun scratch art activity featuring images of the City Hall and former Supreme Court buildings through time, or enjoying the exhibitions with friends and family.
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Gallery Children's Biennale continues with an exciting line-up of puppetry performances, poetry readings, workshops, and activities! ADOPT A FLOWER Special Events
Sat–Sun 1–2 Jul, 5–6 & 12–13 Aug, 2–3 Sep | Supreme Court Wing, Level 3, Supreme Court Foyer | Free
Drop by The Sonnet in Blue to pen your dreams on the petals of a plastic flower that will be added to the installation. POETRY PERFORMANCE Supreme Court Wing, Level 3, Supreme Court Foyer | Free
Listen to students recite their poems and stories that are inscribed on the flowers in The Sonnet in Blue. Fri 7 Jul 1–2pm Haig Girls’ School Sat 5 Aug 5–6pm NUS High School of Math and Science Sat 9 Sep 5–6pm Bukit Batok Secondary School
BE AFRAID ONLY OF STANDING STILL BY LYNN LU Tue–Sun 6–10 Sep | 2–6pm | City Hall Wing, Level 2, Singapore Courtyard | Free
Join artist Lynn Lu for a special performance piece dedicated to kids and families.
Lynn Lu's duplet.
Lynn Lu's This Changed My Life.
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SPECIAL EVENTS PERFORMANCES RESONATES WITH Featuring cross-genre collaborations between musical ensembles and contemporary musicians, this series is anchored by elements in the Gallery’s collections, architecture and building spaces that serve as catalysts for creative dialogue. Sat–Sun 1–30 Jul | 2pm, 3pm, 4pm | Level 1, Padang Atrium | Free
July’s line-up is inspired by the theme “The Young Ones”! Celebrate Youth Day and Racial Harmony Day with performances featuring aspiring young musicians. Sat–Sun 5–27 Aug | 2pm, 3pm, 4pm | Level 1, Padang Atrium | Free
Go local lah! This August, local songs and musicians take centrestage with heartfelt performances that remind us of our shared identity, values and ideals. Sat–Sun 2–24 Sep | 2pm, 3pm, 4pm | Level 1, Padang Atrium | Free
Drawing inspiration from the Mid-Autumn Festival, Hari Raya Haji and ASEAN’s 50th anniversary, September’s performances explore landscapes of Southeast Asia with music that captures the warmth of friendship and family.
ROOF RESPONSE Sat 26 Aug, 2 Sep, 9 Sep | 5–7pm | City Hall Wing, Level 5, Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery | Free
Responding to Danh Vo’s roof garden commission, choreographer Susan Sentler and students from LASALLE College of the Arts' School of Dance and Theatre present a structured improvisation dance, exploring the myriad ways that the body can interact with space and art.
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FILM NEAR EQUAL KUSAMA YAYOI — I ADORE MYSELF by Takako Matsumoto Sat–Sun 5–6 Aug | 3pm | City Hall Wing, Level B1, The Ngee Ann Kongsi Auditorium | Free
Japanese with English subtitles | 2008 | 104 min | NC16
This documentary observes Yayoi Kusama at work as she completes a series of 50 large monochrome drawings entitled Love Forever. Through casual interviews, conversations between Kusama and her assistants, and even poetry recitations, it offers an intimate portrait of a remarkable artist whose eccentricities, self-obsession and intense dedication to her art continue to intrigue the world today. Admission is free but registration is required through our website. Doors open at 2.45pm for registered patrons. For visitors without a confirmation email, admission will begin 10 minutes before the screening on a first come, first served basis as seats become available.
Takako Matsumoto
Includes a post-show Q&A with director Takako Matsumoto and exhibition curators Russell Storer and Adele Tan.
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ADULT LEARNING ART TALKS NANYANG ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS STUDENTS’ PRESENTATION Sat 8 Jul | 3–4pm | City Hall Wing, Level 5, Rooftop Studios | Free
From 6 to 13 July, 12 students from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts’ School of Art & Design will showcase works made in response to Danh Vo’s commission at the Rooftop Studios. In this session, the students will share the inspiration behind their works and explore how Danh Vo’s abstract objects expand ideas of art. VIETNAMESE LACQUER PAINTING: TRADITION & TRANSFORMATION Sat 15 Jul | 3–4pm | Supreme Court Wing, Level 5, Glass Room | Free
Hear artist Phi Phi Oanh and Low Sze Wee (Director, Curatorial, Collections & Education, National Gallery Singapore) discuss the tradition of Vietnamese lacquer painting and how she has furthered the lacquer technique in her work. LECTURE BY AKIRA TATEHATA Sun 27 Aug | 3–4.30pm | City Hall Wing, Level B1, The Ngee Ann Kongsi Auditorium | Free
Join distinguished curator and art critic Akira Tatehata as he discusses what art means to Yayoi Kusama as well as her broader significance in the Japanese and international art scenes. Yayoi Kusama. Starry Pumpkin. 2015. Fibreglass reinforced plastic, tile (silver, black). 127 × 143 × 144 cm. Collection of the artist. ©Yayoi Kusama. Courtesy of Ota Fine Arts, Tokyo/Singapore.
RE-IMAGINING HOME: VIETNAM AS SIGN, SITE, AND HISTORY IN CONTEMPORARY ART Sat 12 Aug | 3–4pm | Glass Room | Free
What does it mean to be a Vietnamese artist, and how have diasporic artists engaged with the country as a place shaped by intersections among the local, national and global? Join art historian Dr Pamela Corey as she explores issues of representation in the work of prominent contemporary artists.
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THE ART OF COLLECTING Sat 2 Sep | 3–4pm | Supreme Court Wing, Level 5, Glass Room | Free
Join Jennifer Lam (Assistant Curator, National Gallery Singapore) as she discusses the history and practice of collecting art in Singapore during the early 20 th century, with reference to the Xiu Hai Lou Collection of Chinese painting and calligraphy. LAW OF THE LAND Held in conjunction with Law of the Land: Highlights of Singapore’s Constitutional Documents, this series of talks reveals more about the documents on display, as well as behind-the-scenes perspectives on curating the exhibition. Each week features a different speaker and period in history. Adult Learning
From Settlement to Colony: 1819–1940 Sat 16 Sep | 1–2pm | Supreme Court Wing, Level 5, Glass Room | Free by Kevin Khoo (Oral History Specialist, National Archives of Singapore)
Towards Self-Governance: 1941–1959 Sat 23 Sep | 1–2pm | Supreme Court Wing, Level 5, Glass Room | Free by Mark Wong (Oral History Specialist, National Archives of Singapore)
Towards an Independent Nation-State: 1960–1965 Sat 30 Sep | 1–2pm | Supreme Court Wing, Level 5, Glass Room | Free by Fiona Tan (Assistant Archivist, National Archives of Singapore)
WORKSHOPS SUNDAY STUDIO: MARBLED PATTERNS Sun 2 Jul, 6 Aug, 3 Sep | 2–5pm | City Hall Wing, Level 1, Keppel Centre for Art Education Workshops 1 & 2 | $45 | Tickets available through the Gallery and SISTIC websites and ticketing counters
Drawing inspiration from YAYOI KUSAMA: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow, participants will learn marbling techniques and experiment with creating a range of patterns on fabric and paper.
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KEPPEL CENTRE FOR ART EDUCATION
The newly revamped Keppel Centre is an exciting place where art inspires new ways of learning. Visitors can enjoy immersive spaces that encourage imagination, creativity and self-led exploration. The Keppel Centre also provides a lively line-up of programmes for youth, children and families all year round. Located on Level 1 of the City Hall Wing, the Keppel Centre is easily accessible to schools and families with young children. Admission is free. The Keppel Centre for Art Education is made possible through a gift by Keppel Corporation.
PROJECT GALLERY Hug soft sculptures, climb into giant rocks and observe a shimmering display of colours as you explore The Blue Who Swims All This Way by artist Betty Susiarjo. 26
ART CORRIDOR Discover shapes and forms inspired by Han Sai Por’s sculpture Tetrahedrontetrahedron Interpenetration.
ART PLAYSCAPE Explore a magical forest and roam through a labyrinth at Sandra Lee’s The Enchanted Tree House, a fantastical play area inspired by the idea of “entering a painting.”
Explore basic print-making processes and create your own print inspired by artworks in our National Collection.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Take a peek into an artist's studio and learn how ceramics are created. Unleash your creativity by designing a clay creation at the interactive station.
Kids & Schools
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM WORKSHOP
KIDS’ PROGRAMMES FAMILY WEEKENDS Enjoy a line-up of parent-child programmes at the Keppel Centre for Art Education that use the Gallery’s collection as a springboard to introduce little ones to art. Designed in collaboration with artists and art practitioners, the programmes offer interactive experiences to awaken children’s natural curiosities and stretch their imagination to new levels. Please visit www.nationalgallery.sg/learn/families for information or to register.
4+
YEARS
DROP-IN ACTIVITY Selected Saturdays and Sundays | 10am–6pm | Free
Get creative as a family through art making or puzzle solving. Pick up an art kit and start crafting or explore the Gallery with a fun activity guide. STORIES IN ART Sat–Sun 8–9 Jul, 12–13 Aug, 9–10 Sep | 2.30–3pm, 3.30–4pm | Free (registration required)
4+
YEARS
Dive into a world of stories that make artworks come alive! Listen and imagine along with storytellers as you journey through a treasure trove of art in the galleries.
5+
YEARS
ART EXPLORERS Sat–Sun 8–9 Jul, 12–13 Aug, 9–10 Sep | 1.30–2pm | Free (registration required)
Gain a new perspective on an artwork in the Gallery’s collection. Learn more about the artist and the art-making process through close-looking and hands-on exploration. FAMILY ART WORKSHOPS Sun 9 Jul, 13 Aug, 10 Sep | 1.30–3pm | $20 per adult-child pair or $30 per adult-child trio | Tickets available through the Gallery and SISTIC websites and ticketing counters
7+
YEARS
Get creative as a family in these fun, hands-on workshops! Pick up new skills for art-making under the guidance of artists, then create your own masterpieces inspired by works in the Gallery.
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KIDS’ ACTIVITIES WHO’S IN THE WOODS City Hall Wing, Level 1
An interactive platform featuring a day-tonight forest-scape awaits the most curious visitor. Create your own hybrid animals using fantastical colours and patterns and discover how they interact with other animals in the woods. Receive a paper template via email to build your own animal at home. SOCIAL TABLE City Hall Wing, Level 2
Explore over 170 artworks from the exhibition Siapa Nama Kamu? on the multi-touch Social Table. Send an artwork to someone across the table and kick-start a dialogue about art, explore artist connections or create a poster of your favourite artworks.
COMING SOON
• Artist-led workshops for 11–14 year olds • Special stroller tours To receive updates, please email families@nationalgallery.sg.
SCHOOL & EDUCATORS’ PROGRAMMES For more information on school and educators' programmes, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg/content/learn-schools.
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GALLERY PUBLICATIONS The Gallery publishes books on the visual art of Singapore and Southeast Asia. We are continually expanding our range of titles and have to date published a collection of children’s books, exhibition catalogues and albums, as well as research titles. Our books are available for purchase at our museum shop. ARTSY: FUN WITH SOUTHEAST ASIAN ART Paper back | 48 pages | $29.96 inclusive of GST ISBN: 978-981-11-2803-5 Inspired by artworks in the National Collection, this fun activity book introduces Southeast Asian artworks and art techniques. It encourages young artists to observe and explore the world around them.
AWESOME ART: THE NEXT 20 ARTWORKS FROM SOUTHEAST ASIA EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW Hardback | 92 pages | $36.38 inclusive of GST ISBN: 978-981-11-2927-8 Following on the heels of the National Gallery Singapore’s first Awesome Art book, this title presents 20 more works that speak of the diversity and richness of art in the region. Perfect for the young and young at heart!
CHARTING THOUGHTS Paperback | 484 pages | $48.15 inclusive of GST ISBN: 978-981-11-2865-3 This volume assembles essays by 26 emerging and established scholars, who have turned their minds to the art and the writing of it in Southeast Asia from the 19th century to the present.
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REDISCOVERING TREASURES: INK ART FROM THE XIU HAI LOU COLLECTION
袖中有东海：袖海楼水墨藏珍 Paperback | 192 pages | $53.50 inclusive of GST ISBN: 978-981-11-2374-0 The Xiu Hai Lou Collection, founded by the late Yeo Khee Lim, is feted as one of the most extensive ink collections in Singapore. This exhibition catalogue showcases the breadth of the collection and includes an interview with the Yeo family, who continue to oversee the collection today.
STROKES OF LIFE: THE ART OF CHEN CHONG SWEE
生机出笔端：陈宗瑞艺术特展 Paperback | 212 pages | $53.50 inclusive of GST ISBN: 978-981-11-2373-3 This exhibition catalogue provides an overview of Chen Chong Swee's practice. Chen is celebrated as one of Singapore’s foremost artists, noted for his distinctive incorporation of local subject matter into the medium of traditional Chinese ink painting.
YAYOI KUSAMA: LIFE IS THE HEART OF A RAINBOW Paperback | 116 pages | $37.45 inclusive of GST ISBN: 978-981-11-2855-4
Publications
Accompanying the first major survey of Yayoi Kusama’s work in Southeast Asia, this catalogue features essays by curators from National Gallery Singapore and Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art, a biographical timeline, and beautifully reproduced images of her works.
For more information, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg/learn/publications or email us at publications@nationalgallery.sg.
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TICKETING INFORMATION Tickets are required for admission into all exhibition galleries except the ArchiGallery, Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery and Chief Justice’s Chamber & Office. Visitors are encouraged to book tickets to YAYOI KUSAMA: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow in advance through our website. SINGAPOREANS AND PRS Ticket Type
Standard
Concessions
General Admission
Free
Free
All Access Pass (General Admission + Special Exhibition)
$15
$10
Standard
Concessions
$20
$15
$25
$20
$30
$25
NON-SINGAPOREANS Ticket Type General Admission Special Exhibition (YAYOI KUSAMA: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow)
All Access Pass (General Admission + Special Exhibition) ADMISSION IS FREE FOR: • Gallery Insiders • Children aged 6 and below • Local/locally-based students & teachers* • Persons with disabilities (PWD) and their caregiver
CONCESSIONS APPLY TO: • Children aged 7–12 • Seniors aged 60 and above • Full-time National Servicemen (NSF) excluding foreign personnel • Overseas students and teachers
Valid verification is required. *F or details on eligibility for YAYOI KUSAMA: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg/visit/admissions.
GALLERY INSIDER MEMBERSHIP Gallery Insider members enjoy free entry to all exhibitions, priority booking for selected programmes, members-only events, discounts at our museum shop, restaurants and bars! Sign up now or purchase the membership as a gift for your loved ones. Membership Type
Singaporeans and PRs
Individual (1 adult)
$30
$75
Concession (1 adult)
$25
$55
Joint (2 adults)
$60
$150
Family (2 adults + up to 3 children)
$85
$260
For more information, please email membership@nationalgallery.sg. 32
Non-Singaporeans
GENERAL INFORMATION EXHIBITION OPENING HOURS Mon–Thu, Sun and Public Holidays 10am–7pm Fri–Sat and Eve of Public Holidays 10am–10pm General ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing time. Tickets to YAYOI KUSAMA: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow must be purchased 1.5 hours before closing time.
GETTING TO THE GALLERY BY CAR Drop-off point for cars is located at Coleman Street entrance.
BY BUS (Stops at Parliament Place) 195, 961 By MRT 5-minute walk from City Hall MRT station via the Art Connector
here are 200 parking lots on Levels T B2 and B3. Entrance to the carpark is only accessible via St Andrew's Road.
10-minute walk from Clarke Quay and Raffles Place MRT stations
Gallery Parking Rates Daily, including Public Holidays 7am–6pm $1.30 per half hour 6pm–1am $3.20 per entry $1.00 per entry for motorcycles
B Y TAXI The nearest taxi stands are located at Coleman Street entrance of the Gallery and The Adelphi.
THE ARTS HOUSE
PICK-UP/ DROP-OFF POINT
NATIONAL GALLERY SINGAPORE PARLIAMENT HOUSE SUPREME COURT LANE THE ADELPHI
SUPREME COURT
Visit Us
ADDRESS: 1 St Andrew’s Road #01-01 Singapore 178957. ENQUIRIES: 6271 7000, info@nationalgallery.sg
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SHOPPING & DINING
GALLERY & CO. MUSEUM STORE & CAFETERIA City Hall Wing, #01-11 | Tel: 6385 6683 Retail: Sun–Thu 10am–7pm; Fri–Sat 10am–10pm Cafeteria: Sun–Wed 11am–7pm; Thu–Sat 3pm–late This progressive retail and dining destination presents a curation of art and design products alongside the Gallery’s unique and exclusive brand of food and goods to complete your museum experience.
AURA RESTAURANT City Hall Wing, #05-03 | Tel: 6866 1977 Daily noon–2.30pm, 6.30–10.30pm Aura Restaurant treats diners to classic Italian cuisine and a world-class contemporary dining experience. The menu is an extensive expression of Italian creativity, showcasing a variety of antipasto, pastas and wholesome mains.
AURA SKY LOUNGE City Hall Wing, #06–02 | Tel: 6866 1977 Daily 11.30am–1am Fronted by the spectacular skyline of the Marina Bay, Aura Sky Lounge is a stylish lounge and bar with a strong Mediterranean focus. It is the ultimate rooftop bar with happy hours in the evenings.
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COURTYARD CAFÉ Supreme Court Wing, #01-02A Sun–Thu 9am–7pm, Fri–Sat 9am–8pm Specialising in Straits Asian food, Courtyard Café serves authentic and modern interpretations of local dishes alongside a selection of traditional kuehs, cakes, toast and beverages.
NATIONAL KITCHEN BY VIOLET OON SINGAPORE City Hall Wing, #02-01 | Tel: 9834 9935 Daily noon–2.30pm, (afternoon tea) 3–5pm, 6–10.30pm Helmed by local celebrity chef Violet Oon, National Kitchen serves perennial favourites that reflect Singapore’s rich culinary heritage.
ODETTE Supreme Court Wing, #01-04 | Tel: 6385 0498 Mon 7–9.30pm; Tue–Sat noon–2pm, 7–9.30pm Two-Michelin star Odette reflects Chef-Owner Julien Royer’s respect for seasonality, terroir and artisanal produce. Using classic French techniques, Royer presents the world’s finest seasonal ingredients in their purest form and flavour.
SMOKE & MIRRORS City Hall Wing, #06-01 | Tel: 6384 5595 Mon–Fri 3pm–1am; Sat–Sun noon–2am Enjoy magnificent panoramic views over the Padang and Marina Bay while savouring a drink from a meticulously curated menu including signature cocktails, wines and craft spirits.
YÀN C ity Hall Wing, #05-02 | Tel: 6384 5585 Daily 11.30am–2.30pm, 6–10.30pm Yàn offers diners the best in Cantonese cuisine. The sophisticated and innovative signature dishes crafted with diverse ingredients alongside familiar flavours promise to tantalise your taste buds.
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SUPPORT THE G ALLE RY The Gallery offers opportunities for you to enhance and cultivate your love for the arts. Your support helps us to build a world-class collection, pioneer original research, and develop our public programmes to bring art to a wider audience. Support the Gallery as a:
BEST FRIEND OF THE GALLERY (BFG) The BFG programme offers passionate individuals and corporate partners the chance to contribute meaningfully to the Gallery, and gain exposure to the workings of a major visual arts institution in a range of roles. Volunteers who are dedicated to sharing art with the public can also apply to become docents. Our extensive docent training programme introduces them to our collection and equips them with the presentation skills to lead daily guided tours. For learn more about becoming a volunteer, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg/support.
DONOR Your support as a donor is crucial to the future growth of the Gallery’s collection and programmes, and you may be eligible for a generous tax deduction in appreciation of your donation. We will be pleased to advise you on the different ways of contributing to the Gallery. If you are interested in making a cash donation, please email supportus@nationalgallery.sg. If you are considering donating an artwork to the Gallery, please email collections@nationalgallery.sg.
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National Gallery Singapore would like to thank our corporate partners for their generous support. DEVELOPMENT PARTNER
Members of Tote Board Group
FOUNDING PARTNERS
Support the Gallery
PARTNER
INNOVATION PARTNER
SUPPORTED BY
For details on sponsorship and partnership opportunities, visit www.nationalgallery.sg/support.
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nationalgallerysg nationalgallerysingapore natgallerysg nationalgallerysg
www.nationalgallery.sg 6271 7000, info@nationalgallery.sg 38
1 St Andrew’s Road Singapore 178957