National Gallery Singapore is throwing a huge art party – and there’s something for everyone

It feels like only yesterday that the National Gallery Singapore swung open its glass doors, but in the blink of an eye, a year has flown by. And what a year it’s been. From international exhibitions such as Reframing Modernism and Wu Guanzhong: Beauty Beyond Form, to permanent showcases like Siapa Nama Kamu? and Between Declarations & Dreams, there have been plenty of superb offerings on show.

But it’s not all chin-stroking stuff. The Gallery is letting its hair down in celebration of its first anniversary, throwing a massive ten-day party, stretching from day to night over the weekends – and everyone’s invited. The best part? Most of it’s free. Here’s what to expect. 

Have fun with intriguing artworks

How many times have you been to a gallery and you’re told to look but don’t touch? Well, the many interactive pieces that you’ll find at the Gallery would like to invite you to do the exact opposite. Take, for example, Affinity by interactive lighting and design studio amigo and amigo, and Tash Tan and Richard Wong from Australian creative agency S1T2. Sprawled across the historic City Hall Chamber, the light sculpture comprises a network of orbs that change colours and emit sounds when touched to simulate how neurons communicate with one another.

Another highlight is Shimmering Treetops, a mesmerising installation by LASALLE that drapes light over ribbons of suspended Swarovski crystals, like sunshine filtering through foliage. And don’t miss Lily Tan’s Balloon Forest: this bright, Instagram-worthy work in the City Hall Foyer encourages viewers to spare a thought for the fragility of nature.

Alternatively, if you prefer a solid plan as opposed to meandering through the artworks, sign up for the free late-night guided tours. These five tours (called the ‘Incredible 5 Series’) takes you through a variety of ‘top-fives’ – think must-see artworks or Instagram-worthy spots – through the galleries such as the DBS Singapore Gallery and UOB Southeast Asia Gallery. 

'Affinity', conceptualised by amigo and amigo, and S1T2

Get the kids involved

While you’re at Balloon Forest, look out for a series of short children’s films, including Art – Small Potatoes by Josh Selig and Rempah Sayang by Mabel Gan, which are screened at selected times. If you’d like to acquaint the little ones with the exhibitions at the National Gallery, sign up for the Artist and Empire Family Tour, which is suitable for ages seven and up.

Budding illustrators, meanwhile, can sign up for the Art Alive! series. Experts from the Organisation of Illustrators Council Singapore will work with the kids to transform their sketches and doodles into full-fledged works of art.

'Rempah Sayang'

Be the first to catch a new film

National Gallery Singapore has once again partnered the Singapore International Film Festival to screen a few flicks. Catch the local premiere of Art through Our Eyes, an anthology of shorts shot by five award-winning South-East Asian directors, bringing art masterpieces to life via film.

And since we’re on the topic of screenings, don’t miss the spectacular Façade Show that takes place at 8pm on Friday and Saturday nights. You’ll see the building’s stately exterior transformed into a beautiful, illuminated canvas, as the Spinefex Group projects magical scenes inspired by art from the Gallery. 

Façade Show

Let the music play 

You can also enjoy musical performances at the Padang Atrium by the hottest talents in Singapore, including Nathan Hartono, singer-songwriter Charlie Lim, a cappella group Budak Pantai, and rising star Samantha Rui. Deeper into the night – the Gallery closes at 3am on Fridays and Saturdays – DJ RAH, DJ DuriO, DJ KAYE and others are set to drop the beat and get those hands up in the air.

Eat, drink and make merry

And what’s a party without food? Whenever your tummy grumbles, grab a bite at the pop-up stalls on St Andrew’s Road (termed the Festival Food Street) or at the Padang Atrium. To cap off your day, bring home a piece of art as a souvenir. Check out the Indoor Art and Design Market, where you’ll find creations by homegrown artists, designers and craftspeople.

With the festival’s diverse range of acts and installations, National Gallery Singapore is well on its way to making art more accessible to everyone – so, brush aside your excuses – it’s time to head down to the best arty party of the year. 

To find out more, visit https://www.nationalgallery.sg/content/see-do-highlights-gallery-light-night-festival