Are you looking for a unique and enriching experience in Singapore? Do you want to explore the diverse and vibrant art scene of Asia? If yes, then you should not miss the Singapore Art Museum, one of the leading institutions for contemporary art in the region.
The Singapore Art Museum (SAM) is dedicated to presenting and promoting contemporary art from Singapore, Southeast Asia, and Asia. It showcases the works of emerging and established artists, as well as the cultural and social issues that inspire them. It also offers a range of exhibitions, programmes, and educational resources that cater to different audiences and interests.
The museum is located in the heart of the city, within walking distance from the Bras Basah MRT station. It occupies two heritage buildings, the former St. Joseph's Institution and the former Catholic High School, which date back to the 19th and 20th centuries respectively. These buildings have been beautifully restored and adapted to house the museum's collections and facilities, while retaining their original architectural features and charm.
History and Architecture of the Museum
The Singapore Art Museum was established in 1996 as the first art museum in Singapore. It was also the first museum in the world to focus on contemporary art from Southeast Asia. Since then, it has expanded its scope to include art from other parts of Asia, as well as international collaborations and exchanges.
The museum's main building, the former St. Joseph's Institution, was built in 1855 as a Catholic boys' school. It is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Singapore and a national monument. It features a neo-classical style with a symmetrical facade, a portico, and a dome. The building also has a rich history, having witnessed the Japanese occupation, the post-war social unrest, and the independence of Singapore.
The museum's annex building, the former Catholic High School, was built in 1951 as a Chinese-medium school. It is also a national monument and a rare example of art deco architecture in Singapore. It has a streamlined design with geometric motifs, a curved corner, and a clock tower. The building also has a cultural significance, as it was the birthplace of the Nanyang style of art, which blended Chinese and Western influences.
The museum has preserved and restored these buildings, while also adding modern elements and amenities to enhance the visitor experience. For instance, the museum has installed glass roofs, skylights, and bridges to create more natural light and space. It has also added lifts, ramps, and wheelchair-accessible toilets to improve accessibility.
Exhibitions and Programmes at the Museum
The Singapore Art Museum is known for its innovative and diverse exhibitions and programmes that feature contemporary art from Singapore, Southeast Asia, and Asia. The museum aims to showcase the artistic talent and bold perspectives of the region, as well as to foster dialogue and understanding among different cultures and communities.
The museum's exhibitions and programmes are organized around four themes: SAM Mini Mobile Museum, SAM Touch Collection, SAM Learning Gallery, and SAM Residencies. These themes reflect the museum's vision and values, such as accessibility, inclusivity, education, and experimentation.
SAM Mini Mobile Museum is a travelling exhibition that brings contemporary art to the public in various locations across Singapore, such as libraries, community centres, and schools. The exhibition features specially commissioned artworks by local and regional artists, which are designed to be interactive, immersive, and adaptable. The exhibition also includes workshops, talks, and tours that engage the public in meaningful and fun ways.
SAM Touch Collection is a tactile exhibition that allows visitors to touch, feel, and explore contemporary art through specially curated artworks and objects. The exhibition is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, especially for visually impaired and special needs visitors. The exhibition also provides audio guides, braille labels, and sensory maps to enhance the visitor experience.
SAM Learning Gallery is an educational exhibition that introduces contemporary art to young and curious visitors, as well as their families and educators. The exhibition features artworks that relate to the themes of identity, place, and time, as well as the stories and inspirations behind them. The exhibition also offers interactive and hands-on activities that stimulate creativity and learning.
SAM Residencies is a programme that supports and nurtures local and international artists, curators, and researchers in their artistic and professional development. The programme provides residencies, mentorships, and grants to the participants, as well as opportunities to showcase their works and ideas at the museum and other platforms. The programme also fosters collaboration and exchange among the participants and the museum's staff, partners, and audiences.
Other Places to Visit Near the Museum
If you want to explore more of the arts and culture scene in Singapore, you can also check out these other museums and galleries near the museum:
National Museum of Singapore: The oldest and largest museum in Singapore, which showcases the history and culture of the nation through its permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as its events and festivals.
National Gallery Singapore: The largest public collection of modern art in Southeast Asia, which features the works of Singaporean and Southeast Asian artists from the 19th century to the present, as well as international exhibitions and programmes.
ArtScience Museum: A unique museum that explores the intersection of art, science, technology, and culture through its cutting-edge and immersive exhibitions, as well as its workshops and talks.
Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay: A premier performing arts centre that hosts a variety of local and international performances, such as music, dance, theatre, and comedy, as well as festivals and events.
Singapore Tyler Print Institute: A contemporary art space that specializes in print and paper art, which showcases the works of renowned and emerging artists, as well as offers workshops and courses for the public.
The Singapore Art Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone who is interested in contemporary art in Asia. It offers a rich and diverse array of exhibitions and programmes that cater to different tastes and preferences, as well as a stunning and historic setting that adds to the charm and appeal of the museum. Whether you are a casual visitor or a serious art lover, you will find something to inspire and delight you at the museum.
Visit the Singapore Art Museum website today to find out more about the museum and its offerings, and to plan your visit. You will not regret it!
