National Gallery Singapore

Five women, over 50 artworks and one shared mission. This exhibition brings Southeast Asian artists Amanda Heng (Singapore), Dolorosa Sinaga (Indonesia), Imelda Cajipe-Endaya (Philippines), Nirmala Dutt (Malaysia) and Phaptawan Suwannakudt (Thailand) to display their work together in Singapore for the very first time. But more than just an art showcase, Fear No Power is a space to have a conversation about meaningful change and the artists’ decades-long commitment to it. Featuring photography, paintings, sculptures and performances that date all the way back to the 1960s, this multidisciplinary exhibition examines the concept of communal world-building across the region and what it means to forge a community. Every piece of work is an intimate and powerful reflection deeply rooted in care, collaboration and resistance.

In this larger-than-life artwork taking over the National Gallery’s Padang Atrium, contemporary Thai artist Navin Rawanchaikul captures the dynamic and passionate cultures and lives that make up the diverse Singaporean community. Following a year-long engagement with migrant workers, indigenous groups and faith organisations, the artist’s revelations and discoveries are translated into spectacular billboard paintings, video interviews and a travelogue that celebrates their vibrant stories and voices. The showcase is supported by an enriching two-part programme that highlights the people who have inspired the installation. Join in on fireside chats with the artist to explore behind the scenes and the empowering migrant stories. Singaporama Unfolded Part I centres on Kaugnay, an organisation for Filipina domestic workers, and its fabulous Trashion Show, while Part II traces the history of migration in Singapore. The latter presents a performance of a traditional Indian folk dance by Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) Ambassadors, alongside a discussion on identity, community and collaboration.

For the first time ever, the National Gallery is hosting the largest solo exhibition dedicated to the prolific Chinese ink artist He Xiangning in Singapore. The exhibition presents over 50 of He’s works, including paintings, calligraphy, poetry and other archival materials that provide an extensive deep dive into her creative world. More than just an artist, He was also recognised as a political figure and feminist activist. Born in Hong Kong in 1879, she was one of the first Chinese women to study art in Japan, which made her part of the Lingnan school. Her work often draws on motifs such as lions, pine trees, and wintry landscapes to express resilience, solidarity, and moral conviction during a revolutionary movement in modern China. The exhibition is divided into four sections that chart the evolution of her practice alongside the history intertwined with it. Ink and Intent also examines He’s enduring influence on Chinese modern art and her connections to Southeast Asia, especially in Singapore and Penang.