Arts & Culture

You might have heard about Monet Inside, an immersive art exhibition that opened last year, allowing visitors to step into 200 of famous painter Claude Monet's dreamy paintings. If that sounds like your vibe, or if you’ve already been there and done that, here’s the deal: the 360-degree art experience has now added two more classic iconic artists to their show: Gustav Klimt, and Vincent van Gogh, from January 24, 2025.  Presented by Groundseesaw at Parkview Square, the event features stunning visuals, original soundtracks, and captivating storytelling showcased across the venue's floors and five towering screens, each exceeding six meters in height.  Photograph: GroundseesawGustav Klimt If Gustav Klimt rings a bell, you’ll surely recognise his iconic masterpiece, The Kiss. This celebrated painting will be transformed into a digital projection, allowing you to get up close to its intricate details. Paired with lyrical music and mesmerizing visuals, Klimt’s exploration of beauty, love, and the human experience is brought to life in an emotionally captivating way. Moreover, a dedicated narrator will bring Klimt’s world to life, sharing vivid tales of his artistic vision, personal challenges, and the cultural influences that shaped his work. Photograph: GroundseesawVincent van Gogh For Van Gogh, 11 original orchestral soundtracks and breathtaking digital projections will come into play, featuring famous pieces such as Starry Night and Sunflowers in vivid detail. Similarly, a narrator will guide you through an evocative journey to 19th-century Netherlands and France, shedding light on Van Gogh's struggles, inspirations, and remarkable creativity. Each experience includes 45 minutes of storytelling through video and 15 minutes to explore the space and capture photos. Factoring in time to visit the art shop and tour the exhibition hall, the entire experience takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Separate tickets are required for each of the three shows. Ticket sales will commence from January 9, 2025, and can be purchased via Groundseesaw’s page here. HAVE YOU HEARD? Singapore retains its title as the country with the world’s most powerful passport in 2025 Singapore might experience flash floods from January 10 to 13 due to the monsoon surge There’s a dreamy glass sculpture exhibition at Pearl’s Hill Terrace with free entry and tea

Ever come across a psychedelic flower motif with a smiley face? That’s most likely the iconic symbol of one of Japan’s most celebrated artists, Takashi Murakami. Known for his vibrant, playful motifs like the smiling flower and a vibrant ‘superflat aesthetic’, Murakami's work spans fine art, fashion, and commercial collaborations.  Photograph: Daniel Iskandar Among his standout collaborations is his legendary partnership with fashion house Louis Vuitton. First launched in 2003, this creative fusion now celebrates its 20th anniversary with an extensive re-edition collection of more than 200 creations. Photograph: Daniel Iskandar And lucky us, because Singapore gets the spotlight as Southeast Asia’s exclusive host for the Louis Vuitton x Murakami pop-up, happening at 72 Joo Chiat Place from January 4 to 19, 2025. Other cities in which the pop-up will be activated include London, Milan, Tokyo, New York, Shanghai and Seoul. Photograph: Daniel IskandarLouis Vuitton x Murakami Pop-up at Joo Chiat Visitors to the pop-up will be greeted by Takashi Murakami’s iconic smiling flower sculptures, also known as the 3D Superflat Garden, at the entrance. Inside, the experience continues across four distinct zones: a retail area, café, cinema, and care station. Photograph: Louis VuittonRetail Space at the Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop-Up Upon entering, you’ll find yourself in the retail space. Here, explore the latest collection of goods such as bags, scarves, bag charms and cardholders, featuring the colourful Monogram Multicolore. Don’t miss the exclusive launch of the all-new Louis Vuitton x Murakami Superflat Panda card holder either, available for purchase only in Singapore. And the retail experience doesn’t stop after you checkout – shoppers receive a token for a shot at the special capsule toy machine, where they can win exclusive Louis Vuitton x Murakami gifts like sticker packs, Tamagotchis, and trading cards. Photograph: Louis Vuitton (left), Daniel Iskandar (right)Capsule toy machine at Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop-Up At the cinema, grab a seat among Murakami plushies and enjoy the remastered versions of two short films inspired by Alice in Wonderland by Murakami: the Superflat Monogram Film (2003) and Superflat First Love Film (2009).  Photograph: Louis VuittonCinema at the Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop-Up If you already own a Louis Vuitton x Murakami piece and need it cleaned or repaired, you’ll be pleased to know that the pop-up’s third zone features a dedicated care station. Simply bring it down and get it refurbished for free. Services include replacement of parts, canvas and metal cleaning, and paint care. You’ll also be able to catch the Louis Vuitton artisans at work in person at the station. Photograph: Daniel IskandarLouis Vuitton artisans at work at the Care Station Finally, the last zone features a fully Murakami-fied modular-style pink café where visitors can relax with a cup of coffee among iconic plushies and under a transparent roof covered in the Monogram Multicolore. Photograph: Louis Vuitton (left), Daniel Iskandar (right)Café at Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop-Up Admission to the pop-up is free and will be open to walk-ins from January 4, 2025. For more information on the Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop-Up at Joo Chiat, visit their webpage here.

If you’re headed to New Bahru during Singapore Art Week, be sure to check out the lifestyle destination’s first-ever public art showcase, Now Now. This exhibition is all about big, bold imagery – literally – with the works of six local photographers displayed as eye-catching billboards throughout New Bahru’s indoor and outdoor spaces.   Photograph: Guojie'Space Between Giants' by Guojie Here’s the lineup: Lavender Chang, Jovian Lim, Sean Lee, KHOOGJ, Akai Chew, and Liu Liling. Together, their works highlight the little details of daily life in Singapore that we might miss in the midst of our busy lives. Now Now can be thought of as a gallery that spills into the streets, featuring everything from quiet moments under highway flyovers to the soft glow of a Singapore sunrise – almost like a love letter to the city.    The showcase is curated by artist Dawn Ng, known for her thoughtful approach to themes like memory and time. There’ll also be an artist panel happening on March 1, 2025, where you can hear directly from the creators about their process and inspiration. Tania Chan, Chief Marketing Officer of The Lo & Behold Group (the folks behind New Bahru), says it best: “Local artists don’t just create art – they tell the stories that shape our city. Supporting them means celebrating their creativity and giving our culture room to thrive.” Find out more about Now Now via New Bahru’s Instagram here.  HAVE YOU HEARD... The Lord of the Rings musical will debut in Singapore in August 2025 KFC Singapore has a Mofusand collaboration with cute merch like plushies, plus new CNY 2025 menu COTU, a new sky-high nightlife destination with five concepts is now open at Marina Bay

Taeyeon, the powerhouse vocalist from Girls’ Generation, is set to grace the Singapore Indoor Stadium with not one, but two electrifying performances on May 3 and 4, 2025. These shows are part of her highly anticipated The Tense concert tour. Kicking off in Seoul on March 7 with a three-night spectacle at KSPO Dome, the tour will continue across Asia, with stops in Taipei, Manila, Jakarta, Macau, Bangkok, and Hong Kong before landing in Singapore. Taeyeon first rose to fame as the leader and main vocalist of Girls’ Generation, one of K-pop’s most legendary girl groups. Known for hits like Gee, Into the New World, and I Got A Boy, the group has dominated charts and won hearts worldwide since their debut in 2007. Beyond her group activities, Taeyeon has established herself as a solo powerhouse with chart-topping tracks like I, Fine, and INVU. Her achievements include numerous awards, such as multiple Golden Disc Awards and the Best Female Artist honor at the Seoul Music Awards. While ticketing details for her Singapore performances are still under wraps, fans can start marking their calendars and saving the date. You won’t want to miss out as this will be Taeyeon’s first return to Singapore in over a year since her last sold-out show. Stay tuned for more updates. HAVE YOU HEARD? The exclusive Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop-Up lands in Joo Chiat, Singapore – the only one in Southeast Asia Luxury watch brand Audemars Piguet to launch the world’s first AP Café in Singapore this year Giraffa: This viral Japanese curry cheese bread from Kamakura is now available in Singapore  

While Christmas tinsel gets taken down and Chinese New Year decorations start adorning the city in red and gold, something else has popped up along Singapore’s riverside: a row of five chibi-style statues somewhat reminiscent of mega-sized Funko Pop figurines. This may be seemingly random to the general public, but fans of Taiwanese band Mayday would find them recognisable. Located at Stadium Riverside Walk, These Mayday Land installations of members Monster, Ashin, Stone, Masa and Ming have toured other cities along with the rock quintet, and have since landed on our shores in the lead-up to their Mayday #5525 tour as part of the band’s 25th anniversary celebrations. The concert will be happening over two days this month – January 11 and 12, 2025 – at the National Stadium at Singapore Sports Hub. We predict that tons of fans will be queueing up to snap photos with these cartoon-ified versions of their idols before the concert, so if you’re hoping to get your own pics with them, we suggest heading down on an earlier day to beat the crowds. The chances of one meeting Mayday in the flesh might be slim, but hey, this is probably the next best thing. If you're keen to watch the concert but still haven't gotten yourself any tickets, check out the key details you should take note of below: When is Mayday’s concert in Singapore? The concert will be happening on January 11 and 12, 2025 – a Saturday and Sunday, with a starting time of 7pm. Where will the Mayday #5525 concert in Singapore be held? The show will be held at the National Stadium at Singapore Sport Hub, just a stone’s throw from Stadium MRT station on the Circle Line. Are there still tickets left to Mayday’s Singapore concert? Yes, you can still score yourself some last-minute tickets to Mayday’s performance in Singapore this January 2025, though bear in mind that certain sections and categories are completely sold out. The remaining seats are very limited in quality and selling fast as we speak. There’s a total of seven ticket categories, with prices starting from $168 and going up to $368. Get yours online via Ticketmaster. READ MORE Best things to do in Singapore this January 2025 KFC Singapore has a Mofusand collaboration with cute merch like plushies, plus new CNY 2025 menu New and upcoming attractions to check out in Singapore in 2025

Akon has announced that he will be bringing his The Superfan Tour to Singapore, set to perform on November 20, 2024, at Arena at Expo Hall 7. He will also be taking the stage in Malaysia.  The Senegalese-American singer, songwriter, and producer, has earned global acclaim with hits like Lonely and Smack That. His distinctive sound and charismatic presence have garnered him numerous awards, including multiple Grammy nominations and American Music Awards. Beyond his musical achievements, Akon is a dedicated philanthropist, particularly known for his work through Akon Lighting Africa, which aims to bring solar energy to underserved communities across the continent. His contributions to both music and social causes have solidified his place as a multifaceted and influential figure on the world stage. Tickets will be available for purchase via Sistic. Registration for the presale starts on September 18, 10am, with the presale commencing on September 19, 10am. General public sales opening on September 20, 10am. WAIT DON'T GO YET Japan’s Sugar Butter Sand Tree cookie by Tokyo Banana to be sold in Singapore at Orchard kiosk 2NE1 will perform in Singapore this December, as part of their 'Welcome Back' tour Scoot's latest sale has flights from $70 for over 50 destinations including Japan, Greece and Bangkok

“I don’t like Ghibli films,” said no one ever. Okay, maybe that’s an exaggeration. But for the Ghibli fans, we’ve got great news for you – ArtScience Museum will be presenting The World of Studio Ghibli, showcasing the world of well-loved animation studio, Ghibli, from October 4, 2024 to February 2, 2025. This will be Studio Ghibli’s first ever showcase in Singapore and also one of the largest editions to date, exploring its iconic animation and storytelling. The World of Studio Ghibli was first presented in Japan back in 2013. It then moved on to South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Bangkok, with each edition slightly different from the last. The upcoming iteration will feature new additions from Studio Ghibli’s latest film The Boy and the Heron. Photograph: ArtScience MuseumKiki's Delivery Service Installation “For years, ArtScience Museum has been trying to bring a Studio Ghibli show to Singapore, and finally, here it is – the big one! Studio Ghibli has created some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed animated films of all time,” says Honor Harger, Vice-President of ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands.  Photograph: ArtScience MuseumHowl's Moving Castle Installation “This exhibition will transport visitors into the realm of Studio Ghibli, where they will get to experience the films first-hand. Whether you are a Ghibli enthusiast or a newcomer, the exhibition offers something for everyone,” says Studio Ghibli. Photograph: ArtScience MuseumSpirited Away Installation featuring Yubaba The World of Studio Ghibli at the ArtScience Museum is huge – spanning 2,400 square metres, across 11 galleries. Dive into the world of 11 famous Ghibli films such as My Neighbour Totoro (1988), Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989), Princess Mononoke (1997), Spirited Away (2001) and Howl’s Moving Castle (2004). Visitors will be able to meet their favourite characters and immerse themselves in 16 large-scale interactive theatrical sets from various iconic Ghibli films throughout the studio's history – don’t miss your chance to wait in the rain with Totoro, enter Howl’s Moving Castle or hop on a train ride with No-Face. Photograph: ArtScience MuseumSpirited Away Installation featuring No-Face And that’s not all – enjoy 16 art installations that will take you through Studio Ghibli’s creative processes, and grab yourself official Studio Ghibli merchandise at the retail store that have been designed specially for this exhibition in Singapore. Photograph: ArtScience MuseumA variety of interactive box art pieces and trick-eye installations will allow visitors to take a closer look at the intricate details present in each frame of a Studio Ghibli film Ticket sales to The World of Studio Ghibli will commence next week. From July 29, 10am, to August 2, Sands Lifestyle Members are entitled to an exclusive five-day pre-sale where there will be exclusive deals and discounts available at Marina Bay Sands box offices and their webpage here. General sales will start from August 3, 10am onwards. Non-Sands Lifestyle Members can purchase tickets to The World of Studio Ghibli via Klook or all Marina Bay Sands box offices. For more information, visit ArtScience Museum’s webpage here.   MORE NEWS TO CHECK OUT The award-winning Space Explorers: The Infinite VR experience comes to Singapore this October Best airports in the world for shopping: Singapore’s Changi Airport officially tops the list Watch the rare Saturn-Moon conjunction in Singapore on July 24 and 25  

Once again, the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix is returning for an exhilarating three-day event from September 20 to 22, 2024 – and it’s a known fact that Formula 1 is not complete without its annual groundbreaking acts. This year, look forward to over 100 hours of entertainment across 12 stages.  Photograph: Singapore GP Pte LtdFormula 1 2023: Singapore GP The entertainment lineup includes OneRepublic, HONNE and The Jungle Giants on September 20, Friday. Taking the stage on September 21,  Saturday, are Kylie Minogue, Disclosure (DJ), The Corrs, Kool & The Gang, BabyMonster, Tones And I, and James Murphy (DFA / LCD Soundsystem). The lineup for the last day on September 22 includes Lenny Kravitz, Tones And I, Dean Lewis and Kelis. Photograph: Singapore GP Pte LtdFormula 1 2023: Singapore GP Single-day walkabout tickets are priced from $128 and are available for purchase via Singapore GP’s website or authorised ticketing partners. All tickets grant entry to performances in Zone 4, including the main Padang Stage. However, access to performances at the Wharf Stage requires a Zone 1 ticket. Patrons must have a valid ticket for the specific day of the performance they wish to attend. Do note that artists and entertainment programmes might be subjected to change. Follow Singapore GP’s Instagram for the latest updates. MORE TO DISCOVER Walt Disney Animation’s Aladdin concert is coming to the Esplanade Theatre this September ArtScience Museum presents ‘The World of Studio Ghibli’ show this October, here's how to get tickets The award-winning Space Explorers: The Infinite VR experience comes to Singapore this October

Singapore is truly on a roll – Dua Lipa will be joining the list of exciting acts this 2024. She is set to perform at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on November 6, 2024. This is part of her Radical Optimism Asia Tour that will pit stop at other cities too including Jakarta, Manila, Tokyo, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and Seoul. She last performed in Singapore at her sold-out show at The Star Theatre in 2018. The tour announcement follows the release of Dua's third album, 'Radical Optimism', which soared to No. 1 in 11 countries. In the UK, it marked the biggest album debut of 2024 for a UK artist and achieved the highest first-week sales by a UK female artist since 2021. The British pop sensation continues to captivate audiences worldwide with a slew of chart-topping hits such as 'New Rules', 'Don't Start Now', and 'Levitating'. Lipa's music transcends borders and has earned her widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including Grammy Awards, Brit Awards, and MTV Europe Music Awards. She continues to solidify her position as one of the most influential artists in the contemporary music scene, enchanting audiences worldwide with her distinctive voice and infectious energy. All AMEX card holders are entitled to an exclusive presale on June 10, 10am to June 11, 10am. Live Nation members will be able to secure their tickets after, during the Live Nation presale on June 12, from 10am to 11.59pm, via Live Nation. Public sales will commence from June 13, 10am, via Ticketmaster.   MORE MUSIC NEWS American singer-songwriter Tori Kelly will perform in Singapore in August English indie rock band Bombay Bicycle Club will perform in Singapore this November Cigarettes After Sex to perform in Singapore in February 2025

Buckle your seat belts and brace yourselves because ‘kawaii metal’ Japanese trio Babymetal is making their way to Singapore on August 20, set to take the stage at the Capitol Theatre. The last time they performed on our sunny island was in 2018 at Zepp@Big Box as special guests on Judas Priest’s show. Babymetal is a Japanese 'kawaii metal' band formed in 2010, known for their fusion of heavy metal and J-pop accompanied with high-energy performances. The trio is typically dressed in kawaii outfits juxtaposed with aggressive metal instrumentation. Babymetal, comprising Su-Metal, Yuimetal, and Moametal, gained international fame with their 2014 debut album, "Babymetal," which included hits like "Gimme Chocolate!!" and "Ijime, Dame, Zettai." Their mix of genres has earned them a cult following, propelling them to perform at major music festivals worldwide, including the Download Festival and Madison Square Garden. Babymetal's achievements also include their second album, "Metal Resistance," debuting at number 4 on the Oricon chart, and their 2016 performance at the Tokyo Dome, solidifying their status as a global phenomenon in the metal music scene. The concert is set to start at 8pm and will run for roughly 90 minutes. Tickets cost $118 for free seating in the Circle and $158 for free standing in the Stalls, and are already on sale via Sistic as of June 14 at 10am.  Who is the opening act for Babymetal's Singapore concert in 2024? Local metalcore band Reserate will be kicking off Babymetal's show for the evening.  MORE NEWSK-pop idol Rain will perform at Waterbomb Singapore 2024AirAsia has a ‘free seats’ promo for over 130 destinations, book for travel dates till late 2025Peggy Gou returns to perform at Marquee Singapore this July