THE GALLERY GUIDE A P R– J U N 2018
On cover: Georgette Chen Family Portrait c. 1954 Oil on canvas 161.5 x 130.2 cm Gift of the artist's estate
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 Mar 2018. All information is correct at time of print.
CO NTE NT S
APR–JUN 2018
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About the Gallery
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Director’s Message
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Art We Love
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Highlights Calendar
Exhibitions
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Long-Term Exhibitions
12 Special Exhibitions
Tours
18 Free Guided Tours 19 Special Tours
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19 Group Tours 19 Gallery Explorer Audio Tours 20 Special Events 22 Performances 26 Adult Learning 27 Resource Centre
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Kids & Schools
28 Keppel Centre for Art Education 30 Kids’ Programmes 32 Shopping & Dining 36 Gallery Publications 38 Ticketing Information 39 General Information
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40 Support the Gallery
Visit Us
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 Jennie Chua Rosa Daniel Shareen Khattar Kwee Liong Seen Dr Kenson Kwok Professor Dr Apinan Poshyananda Dr Suriani Suratman Wee Sin Tho
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DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
Dear friends, The Gallery believes that art is a powerful tool to engage children and nurture their sense of curiosity for the world they live in. Each month, we offer a host of programmes created to help our young visitors grow an appreciation of history and culture, and the confidence to express themselves through art-making and art-discussion. It was therefore heartening to learn that the Ministry of Education has decided to incorporate museum-based learning for all Primary 4 students. In the coming months, we have more than 10,000 students scheduled for museumbased learning visits to the Gallery. While our permanent galleries and programmes provide a rich resource to support learning in new ways, we also have spaces and festivals in the Gallery that are dedicated to this mission. This quarter, we unveil two fresh experiences for families and kids. The revamped Art Playscape at the Keppel Centre for Art Education, designed by artist Tang Ling Nah, invites visitors to explore optical illusion and play with shadow and sound within a fantastical city. Also located on Level 1 of the City Hall Wing, Who’s by the River is a new interactive platform inspired by Liu Kang’s Life by the River. It features a day-to-night kampong scene that visitors bring to life with their own characters, created using patterns. In May, we launch a new experience, Children's Festival: Small Big Dreamers 2018. It will feature interactive installations that invite children to explore materials, subject matter and concepts in an open-ended manner. Whether young or young at heart, exposure to art is crucial to developing open-minded, critical and innovative thinkers who can find meaning in a complex world. Together with other museums across Singapore, the Gallery is proud to support this. We welcome you to visit and experience the endless benefits of art for yourself.
Eugene Tan Director, National Gallery Singapore
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ART WE LOVE
DID YOU KNOW? Known for his distinctive method of painting that involved the direct application of paint without a brush, Affandi was one of the first artists from Indonesia to earn international acclaim. This self-portrait was first shown in his solo exhibition at the National Museum in 1975, and was later gifted to Singapore by the artist. On display in (Re)collect: The making of our art collection at Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery C.
Affandi Self-Portrait 1975 Oil on canvas 130 x 100.5 cm Gift of the artist Š Affandi Foundation
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HIGHLIGHTS CALENDAR APRIL
1 SUN PERFORMANCE (p. 22)
Sunday Tea Ceremony Other dates: 6 May, 3 Jun
1 SUN
7 SAT
7–8 SAT–SUN
PERFORMANCE (p. 23)
Resonates With: Bennett Bay
Student responses to the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Comission: Rirkrit Tiravanija
PERFORMANCE (p. 23)
PERFORMANCE (p. 22)
Other dates: 7–8 Apr
In Her Hands
Other dates: 19 May
MAY
11 FRI
NEW
SPECIAL EXHIBITION OPENS (p. 17) (Re)collect: The making of our art collection Chuah Thean Teng. SelfPortrait. c. 1950s. Batik. 31 x 21 cm. Gift of the Loke Wan Tho Collection.
12 SAT SPECIAL TOUR (p. 19) Curator's Tour: (Re)collect Other dates: 19 May S. Sudjojono. Draw & Paint sketchbook. 1969. Ink and watercolour on paper. Gift of John Koh. Collection of National Gallery Singapore. © S Sudjojono Center.
JUNE
16 SAT
SPECIAL EVENT (p. 20) Rirkrit Day
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16 SAT CURATOR TALK (p. 26)
Installation In Progress?: Art and Urban life in 1990s Thailand | A Conversation with Cheng Jia Yun and Adele Tan
21 SAT CURATOR TALK (p. 26)
Evoking the Southeast Asian Contemporary: The United World College Festival of the Arts, 1972–84 | A Conversation with Teo Eng Seng and Joleen Loh
27 FRI PERFORMANCE (p. 24)
0060 by Ground Z-0 Other dates: 28–29 Apr, 1–6 May, 8–12 May
JUNE
9 SAT
18 FRI SPECIAL EVENT (p. 20)
International Museum Day Open House
SPECIAL EVENT OPENS (p. 21)
19 SAT
Children's Festival: Small Big Dreamers 2018
CURATOR TALK (p. 26)
Doors into Constancio Bernardo | A Conversation with Clarissa Chikiamco
29 FRI PERFORMANCE (p. 25) Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) 2018: Celebrations in the City Other dates: 30 Jun, 1 Jul
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LONG–TERM EXHIBITIONS SIAPA NAMA KAMU? Art in Singapore since the 19th Century Ongoing | City Hall Wing, Level 2, DBS Singapore Gallery
Chen Wen Hsi Samsui Women 1950s Oil on board 88.3 x 105.2 cm Private collection On display at DBS Singapore Gallery 1.
“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 & DREAMS: Art of Southeast Asia since the 19th 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. The UOB Southeast Asia Gallery is made possible through a gift by United Overseas Bank.
S. Sudjojono. Perusing a Poster. 1956. Oil on canvas. 109 x 140 cm. Collection of OHD Museum. On display at UOB Southeast Asia Gallery 6.
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LONG–TERM EXHIBITIONS
LISTENING TO ARCHITECTURE: THE GALLERY’S HISTORIES AND TRANSFORMATIONS Ongoing | City Hall Wing, Level 4, ArchiGallery 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.
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UNREALISED Ongoing | 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. Made possible with the support of the Gallery’s Innovation Partner Accenture.
Erika Tan's Apa Jika, The Misplaced Comma.
For more information, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg/unrealised.
SCAN TO DOWNLOAD APP
Please note earphones are required to experience unrealised.
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SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS WU GUANZHONG: A WALK THROUGH NATURE 吴冠中：风景哪边好
Until 22 Apr | City Hall Wing, Level 4, Wu Guanzhong Gallery 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.
Wu Guanzhong. Settlement on the Grassland. 1998. Oil on canvas. 80 x 100 cm. Gift of the artist and his family.
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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
Until 22 Apr | City Hall Wing, Level 4, Wu Guanzhong Gallery
Ma Jin. Horses. 1941. Chinese ink and colour on paper. 4 panels; 132 x 42.5 cm each. Xiu Hai Lou Collection.
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.
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SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS STROKES OF LIFE: THE ART OF CHEN CHONG SWEE 生机出笔端：陈宗瑞艺术特展
Until 20 May | 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. This show features key works from his six-decade-long career. It highlights his proficiency in both Chinese and Western art traditions as well as his exploration and experimentation with Chinese painting techniques.
Chen Chong Swee. River Bank. 1976. Watercolour on paper. 57 x 79 cm. Gift of DBS Bank Ltd. © Family of Chen Chong Swee.
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NG TENG FONG ROOF GARDEN COMMISSION: RIRKRIT TIRAVANIJA 24 Jan–28 Oct | City Hall Wing, Level 5, Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery | Free Critically-acclaimed artist Rirkrit Tiravanija presents untitled 2018 (the infinite dimensions of smallness), the second showcase of the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Commission series. The site-specific installation features a large-scale bamboo maze with a Japanese tea house at its centre. Drawing on regional materials, architecture and traditions, it embraces Tiravanija’s interest in crossdisciplinary and collaborative art practice. Within the space, visitors are invited to encounter each other, and participate in interactive programmes including tea ceremonies by local and international tea masters. Rirkrit Tiravanija (b. 1961, Buenos Aires, Argentina) lives and works in New York, Berlin, and Chiang Mai. Since the early 1990s, he has held solo exhibitions in international venues including Los Angeles County Museum (1999), Guggenheim Museum, New York (2005), Fridericianum, Kassel (2009), Centre Pompidou, Paris (2012), Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, Moscow (2015), and Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam (2016). He was awarded the Hugo Boss Prize in 2004. The Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery is made possible through a gift by Far East Organization. Series Sponsor
FOR KIDS
Look out for the roving Gallery Cart from Feb to Apr 2018. Stop by and create your own origami paper craft inspired by the commission. For more programmes, please see p. 22.
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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.
Organised by
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Supported by
Third Charter of Justice, 1855 This document affirmed the reception of English law in Singapore and provided the settlement with its own professional judge (then known as a Recorder).
NEW
(RE)COLLECT: THE MAKING OF OUR ART COLLECTION 11 May–19 Aug | City Hall Wing, Level 3, Singtel Special Exhibition Galleries B & C This exhibition reveals the story behind the creation of the National Collection in the 1960s and how it continues to evolve today by highlighting the significant acquisitions and donations made in recent years. The layers of collecting history emerge from (re)collecting the past and capturing the present through close to 130 works. Featured artists include Affandi, Georgette Chen, Cheo Chai-Hiang, Latiff Mohidin, Lim Hak Tai, Lim Yew Kuan, Navin Rawanchaikul and S. Sudjojono. Stop by the roving Gallery Cart from May to Jul 2018 to learn about art conservation! This programme is supported by Applied Materials.
FOR KIDS
Lead Sponsor
Chuah Thean Teng. Self-Portrait. c. 1950s. Batik. 31 x 21 cm. Gift of the Loke Wan Tho Collection.
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GALLERY TOURS FREE GUIDED TOURS Explore the rich history of our buildings and collections by joining one of our guided tours led by trained docents. To reserve a slot, please register at least 20 minutes before the tour starts at the Daily Tours Desk on Level B1 (for opening hours, see p. 39). 20 slots are available per tour on a first come, first served basis. Visitors should obtain or purchase an admission ticket before joining a tour.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE GALLERY English Sat–Sun 5pm | Japanese Sat 28 Apr, 26 May 1.30–2.30pm
BUILDINGS HIGHLIGHTS English daily 11am & 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
LAW OF THE LAND HIGHLIGHTS English Sat 7 Apr, 21 Apr, 5 May, 19 May, 2 Jun, 16 Jun 4.30pm
HIGHLIGHTS OF INK FLOWS THROUGH (UNTIL 22 APR) English Fri–Sun 5.30pm | Mandarin Sat–Sun 5pm
HIGHLIGHTS OF RE(COLLECT) (FROM 25 MAY) English Fri–Sun 2.30pm | Mandarin Fri-Sun 4.30pm 18
SPECIAL TOURS Tours
CURATOR'S TOUR: (RE)COLLECT Sat 12 May, 19 May | 2.30–3.45pm | City Hall Wing, Level 3, Singtel Special Exhibition Galleries | Free (registration required) Led by (Re)collect curators, this tour takes you through key artworks and themes of the exhibition. To register, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg/whats-on.
INSIGHTS TOUR: LAW OF THE LAND Fri 27 Apr, 25 May, 22 Jun | 6.30–7.15pm | Supreme Court Wing, Level 3, Chief Justice's Chamber & Office | Free (registration required) Led by NLB curators, this tour explores the history and development of Singapore’s constitution from 1819 to 1965. To register, please visit www.nlb.gov.sg/golibrary2.
GROUP TOURS COMMUNITY GROUPS The Gallery offers guided tours for community groups at a concessionary rate. For more information, please email groupenquiries@nationalgallery.sg.
CORPORATE OR OTHER PRIVATE GROUPS Please email groupenquiries@nationalgallery.sg for more information.
GALLERY EXPLORER AUDIO TOURS Download our free Gallery Explorer app to enjoy short audio tours on (Re)collect, Chen Chong Swee and the Xiu Hai Lou Collection. The Explorer also features tours of the Gallery’s building history and key works in the long-term exhibitions. Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 devices are available for loan from Visitor Services at Level B1.
Innovation Partner
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SPECIAL EVENTS OPEN HOUSE Fri 18 May | 10am–9pm | Free admission to all exhibitions Celebrate International Museum Day by enjoying the exhibitions with your friends and family.
RIRKRIT DAY Sat 16 Jun | 11am–7.30pm | Various locations | Free Delve deeper into Rirkrit Tiravanija’s practice through a day of exciting programmes. Hear the artist and international experts discuss his collaborative approach to art through relational aesthetics and architecture; watch a film on the making of his commission at the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery; participate in tea ceremonies and view his other works on display in the Gallery. The day closes with the official launch of the exhibition catalogue.
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CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL: SMALL BIG DREAMERS 2018 9 Jun–9 Sep | Various locations | General admission rules apply
Special Events
Dreams are powerful. And we want our young to have big dreams. Launching this year, Small Big Dreamers features interactive installations that teach children about values, passion, confidence and creativity. Through experiential art and active play, children will learn about themselves and the world around them. Each edition is inspired by one Singapore artist from the National Collection—a Big Dreamer—whose story exemplifies that anything is possible, regardless of the challenges we face.
Development Partner
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PERFORMANCES
RESONATES WITH: BENNETT BAY Sat 1 Apr | 2pm, 3pm, 4pm | Padang Atrium | Free Sit back and relax as Bennett Bay and his band perform an acoustic repertoire of original compositions.
RESONATES WITH: YONG SIEW TOH CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC Sat–Sun 7–8 Apr | 2pm, 3pm, 4pm | Padang Atrium | Free Join us as students from Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music present an afternoon of delightful music.
SUNDAY TEA CEREMONIES Sun 1 Apr, 6 May, 3 Jun | 2–5pm | City Hall Wing, Level 5, Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery | Free On the first Sunday of the month, enjoy the rare experience of a tea ceremony held within Rirkrit Tiravanija’s installation untitled 2018 (the infinite dimensions of smallness). Faciliated by BFG Volunteers.
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STUDENT RESPONSES TO THE NG TENG FONG ROOF GARDEN COMMISSION: RIRKRIT TIRAVANIJA Sat 7 Apr | 3–4pm | Various locations | Free Art and dance students from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts present a series of movement pieces choreographed for different spaces in the Gallery. Sat 19 May | 3–4pm | Various locations | Free Students from School of The Art’s Department of Music present compositions inspired by Tiravanija’s relational, experimental and performative art practice.
IN HER HANDS Sat–Sun 7–8 Apr | 2.30pm, 3.30pm, 4.30pm | 20 min | City Hall Wing, Level 4 Gallery | Free Inspired by the paintings of Chen Chong Swee, two performers return to their childhood, recalling memories of their mothers and the artistic journeys that brought them from different parts of Asia to Singapore. Performed by Lim Chin Huat and Melissa Leung HiuTuen, and created in collaboration with Dorothy Png, Pearlyn Cai, Tennie Su and Yong Rong Zhao. This performance will be in Mandarin.
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PERFORMANCES 0060 BY GROUND Z-0 Fri 27 Apr, 4 May, 11 May 9.30pm, 10.45pm Sat 28 Apr, 5 May, 12 May; Thu 3 May, 10 May 7.30pm, 8.45pm, 10pm Sun 29 Apr, 6 May; Tue 1 May, 8 May; Wed 2 May, 9 May 7.30pm, 8.45pm Supreme Court Wing, Level 1, Holding Cells | 45 min (without intermission) | $20, available through sifa.org Through multilingual performances based on some of Singapore’s shocking crimes, Ground Z-0 invites audiences to step into the shoes of the parties involved in a death penalty case—from the victim to the death row inmate, their families, defence lawyers, prosecutors, prison wardens and witnesses—as they traverse a route leading from the former Supreme Court’s holding cells to the courtroom. In collaboration with SIFA 2018.
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SINGAPORE YOUTH FESTIVAL (SYF) 2018: CELEBRATIONS IN THE CITY Fri 29 Jun | 5–7.30pm Sat 30 Jun | 1.15–5.45pm Sun 1 Jul | 2–5.30pm Padang Atrium and Singapore Courtyard | Free As part of SYF 2018 celebrations, these performances will feature creative collaboration among students across various art forms, integrating themes and ideas drawn from within the Gallery. The programme at the Padang Atrium will showcase musical items that explore improvisatory processes with elements of live interaction, while dramatised readings of students’ co-devised scripts that express issues pertinent to our youth are presented at the Singapore Courtyard. Let the students lead you where their imagination takes them.
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ADULT LEARNING CURATOR TALKS EVOKING THE SOUTHEAST ASIAN CONTEMPORARY: THE UNITED WORLD COLLEGE FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS, 1972–84 | A CONVERSATION WITH TEO ENG SENG AND JOLEEN LOH Sat 21 Apr | 5–6pm | City Hall Wing, Level 2, DBS Singapore Gallery 2 | Free (Limited spaces available on a first come, first served basis) Join artist Teo Eng Seng and Joleen Loh (Assistant Curator, National Gallery Singapore) as they discuss the context and significance of one of the earliest sites in Singapore for the display of contemporary art from the region, as well as Europe and the United States.
DOORS INTO CONSTANCIO BERNARDO | A CONVERSATION WITH CLARISSA CHIKIAMCO Sat 19 May | 5–6pm | Supreme Court Wing, Level 3, UOB Southeast Asia Gallery 9 | Free (Limited spaces available on a first come, first served basis) Learn more about Constancio Bernardo’s pursuit of abstraction in post-war Philippines through his painting Bernadian Synthesis No. 1, in this talk by Clarissa Chikiamco (Curator, National Gallery Singapore).
INSTALLATION IN PROGRESS?: ART AND URBAN LIFE IN 1990S THAILAND | A CONVERSATION WITH CHENG JIA YUN AND ADELE TAN Sat 16 Jun | 1–2pm | Supreme Court Wing, Level 5, UOB Southeast Asia Gallery 15 | Free (Limited spaces available on a first come, first served basis) Join Adele Tan (Curator, National Gallery Singapore) and Cheng Jia Yun (Assistant Curator, National Gallery Singapore) in exploring how four prominent Thai artists addressed specific facets of urban life in Thailand—1990s Bangkok in particular—and the emergence of installation art in Thailand and Southeast Asia.
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RESOURCE CENTRE
Adult Learning
Hernando R. Ocampo's scrapbook.
Located on Level 4M of the Supreme Court Wing, the Resource Centre houses the Gallery’s collection of reference materials and historical archives of Singapore and Southeast Asian modern art. This rich public resource also provides a platform for the development of the Gallery’s curatorial research and academic projects.
OPENING HOURS Mon–Fri 10am–12.30pm, 2–5pm Eve of Public Holidays 10am–2pm Closed on Public Holidays While we accept walk-ins, making an appointment is recommended for access to all our facilities. To make an appointment, please email resource.centre@nationalgallery.sg or call +65 66979180 at least one day before your visit.
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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.
ART PLAYSCAPE Step inside this fantastical city, explore unusual perspectives and encounter cities within cities. What can you see and what sounds can you hear? Artist Tang Ling Nah is known for large-scale charcoal drawings inspired by Singapore’s cityscape. Here she creates an imaginary city for children and families to explore optical illusions and play with shadows and sounds. Discover the relationship between light, object and space, search for miniature cities and be captivated by colours and shapes as you explore Wandering in Black and White. 28
ART CORRIDOR Discover a kaleidoscope of colours and create your own patterns, inspired by Han Sai Por’s sculpture Tetrahedron-tetrahedron Interpenetration.
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.
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. 29
Kids & Schools
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM WORKSHOP Explore basic print-making processes and create your own print inspired by artworks in our National Collection.
KIDS’ PROGRAMMES FAMILY WEEKENDS Enjoy a line-up of family programmes at the Keppel Centre for Art Education that use the Gallery’s collection as a springboard to introduce children 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/discover-learn/kids-families for more details.
3+ BOOK IN A NOOK
YEARS
First Saturdays | 3–3.45pm | Free (registration required)
Gather round and listen to fascinating stories of people, places, animals and objects being read in the permanent galleries.
4+ DROP-IN ACTIVITY
YEARS
Selected Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays | 10am–6pm | Free
Drop by the Keppel Centre for Art Education workshops and participate in a fun art-making activity inspired by one of the Gallery’s current exhibitions.
4+ STORIES IN ART
Second Saturdays and Sundays | 2.30–3.15pm, 3.30–4.15pm | Free (registration required) 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+ ART EXPLORERS
YEARS
Second Saturdays and Sundays | 1.30–2.15pm | Free (registration required)
Gain a new perspective on an artwork in the Gallery’s permanent exhibitions through a docent-led tour. Learn more about the artist and the art-making process through close-looking and hands-on exploration.
7+ FAMILY ART WORKSHOPS
Second Saturdays | 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 YEARS
Get creative as a family in these fun, hands-on workshops! Pick up new skills for art-making under the guidance of Gallery facilitators, then create your own masterpieces inspired by works in the Gallery.
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11–16
TWEEN WORKSHOPS
Selected Saturdays and Sundays in June | 2–5pm | $30 per participant | Tickets available through the Gallery and SISTIC websites and ticketing counters YEARS
Dive deeper into the stories behind artworks and installations in one of the Gallery’s special exhibitions or festivals. Learn art-making techniques and create your own masterpieces inspired by great artists.
OTHER KIDS’ ACTIVITIES WHO’S BY THE RIVER City Hall Wing, Level 1
An interactive platform featuring a dayto-night kampong-scape awaits the most curious visitor. Inspired by Liu Kang’s Life by the River, Who’s by the River invites you to create your own characters using colours and patterns and watch them come alive!
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.
GALLERY CART Look out for the roving Gallery Cart! Stop by and participate in an interesting activity related to a special exhibition. Then, get a ticket and explore the exhibition with your family.
SCHOOL & EDUCATORS’ PROGRAMMES For more information, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg/content/learn-schools.
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SHOPPING & DINING GalleryandCo galleryandco City Hall Wing, Level 1 | Tel: 6385 6683 MUSEUM STORE Sat–Thu 10am–7pm; Fri 10am–9pm This progressive retail concept presents a thoughtful medley of art and design products, accompanied by the Gallery’s exclusive brand of goods, to complete your museum experience. Drawing inspiration from Southeast Asian culture, the store showcases compelling designers, artists and makers from Singapore and abroad.
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CAFETERIA Sun–Thu 10am–7pm; Fri–Sat 10am–9pm The Cafeteria features a mash-up of vibrant Asian influences with classic favourites, and dynamic collaborations with guest chefs inspired by the Gallery’s exhibitions. BAR Sat–Thu 10am–7pm; Fri 10am–9pm Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a slew of happy hour promotions, tapas and breezy concoctions, accompanied by feel-good tunes. The bar also offers an array of handcrafted bottled cocktails that add a twist on the classics.
Shopping & Dining
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SHOPPING & DINING AURA RESTAURANT City Hall Wing, Level 5 | 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 antipasti, pastas and wholesome mains.
AURA SKY LOUNGE City Hall Wing, Level 6 | 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.
COURTYARD CAFÉ Supreme Court Wing, Level 1 | Tel: 6384 1874 Sat–Thu, Public Holiday 9.30am–7pm; Fri & Eve of Public Holidays 9.30am–8pm Specialising in Straits Asian food, Courtyard Café serves authentic and modern interpretations of local dishes alongside a selection of traditional kuehs, cakes, toasts and beverages.
COURTYARD LOUNGE Supreme Court Wing, Level 1 | Tel: 6384 1874 Mon–Sat 4–11pm Nestled in a cosy corner of the Gallery, Courtyard Lounge serves Asian-fusion tapas in a tranquil ambience with relaxing jazz music.
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NATIONAL KITCHEN BY VIOLET OON SINGAPORE City Hall Wing, Level 2 | 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, Level 1 | 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, Level 6 | Tel: 6384 5595 Mon–Thu 3pm–1am; Fri 3pm–1am; Sat, Eve of Public Holidays & Public Holidays noon–2am; Sun noon–1am 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 City Hall Wing, Level 5 | 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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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. For more information, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg/learn/publications or email us at publications@nationalgallery.sg.
NEW NG TENG FONG ROOF GARDEN COMMISSION: RIRKRIT TIRAVANIJA Paperback | 60 pages | $26.75 inclusive of GST | ISBN: 978-981-11-6454-5 Published to accompany the second Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Commission by renowned artist Rirkrit Tiravanija, this catalogue illuminates his fascinating oeuvre and interest in fostering social engagement through art. It features a curatorial essay, experimental fictional text and interview with Tiravanija, alongside full-colour images of the installation.
DO GALLERY SITTERS SIT ALL DAY? Paperback | 36 pages | $29.96 inclusive of GST ISBN: 978-981-11-4514-8 What is a docent? What does an artwork conservator do? Go behind the scenes to discover what goes on inside an art museum. With colourful illustrations featuring the beautiful architecture of National Gallery Singapore, Do Gallery Sitters Sit All Day? brings readers into the daily lives of museum professionals as they prepare exhibitions, receive artworks and guide visitors around the museum.
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ARTSY: FUN WITH SOUTHEAST ASIAN ART Paperback | 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 WORKS 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! 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. 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.
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TICKETING INFORMATION Tickets are required for admission into all exhibition galleries (including Law of the Land in the Chief Justice’s Office & Chamber, and the Concourse Galleries), except the ArchiGallery and Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery. SINGAPOREANS AND PRS
NON-SINGAPOREANS
Ticket Type
Adult
Concessions
Standard
Concessions
General Admission
Free
Free
$20
$15
ADMISSION IS FREE FOR: • Gallery Insiders • Children aged 6 and below • Local/locally-based students and 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. For latest promotions and ticket prices, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg. *From qualifying institutions only.
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
Non-Singaporeans
Individual
$30
$60
Concession (Students/Seniors)
$25
$50
Dual (2 Pax)
$55
$110
$100
$200
Group (4 Pax)
For more information, please email membership@nationalgallery.sg.
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GENERAL INFORMATION OPENING HOURS Sat–Thu 10am–7pm; Fri 10am–9pm General ticket sales end 30 minutes 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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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. To 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
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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www.nationalgallery.sg 6271 7000, info@nationalgallery.sg 42
1 St Andrew’s Road Singapore 178957