State of the Art: Singapore Biennale 2013

After a two-year hiatus, the Singapore Biennale is back with a vengeance. Not only are the venues better (mostly centered around the Bras Basah vicinity for easier accessibility), the curation itself is tighter than ever, with more installation-based and interactive works. Here are five of our faves.

Scenestealer: Singapore Writers Festival Fringe

Lots of cool talks, exhibitions and screenings will be taking place at this year’s edition (organized by The Arts House in conjunction with the Singapore Writers Festival), centered on the themes dreams, folklore and fairytales. We pick three not-to-be-missed events.

Interview: Sjón

With upcoming Singapore Writers Festival, award winning author, poet, playwright and lyricist Sjón talks to I-S about his new novel and David Bowie's emotional power. Born in Reykjavík, Sjón is the author of From the Mouth of the Whale, The Whispering Muse, and The Blue Fox, among other works that have been translated into 25 languages. He has written songs for Björk, and received an Oscar nomination for the lyrics he co-wrote (with Lars von Trier) for the film Dancer in the Dark.

Manor Cocktail Room

The buzz: From the folks that brought you Gem Bar and Zui Hong Lou, their hip Ann Siang Hill venture is modelled after hush-hush whiskey bars and serves twists on Prohibition-era cocktails. It used to be invite-only but now its signature cocktails are for all to imbibe. The decor: Forest green walls and teak panels […]

NTU Centre for Contemporary Arts Singapore

The Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA) Singapore was developed by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) with the support of Singapore’s Economic Development Board. Located in Gillman Barracks alongside a cluster of international galleries, the CCA operates as a local hub with an international perspective under the leadership of Professor Ute Meta Bauer, the CCA’s Founding Director. […]

Interview: Arlene Phillips from Starlight Express

Broadway legend Arlene Phillips has choreographed countless hit musicals such as Grease, We Will Rock You, Saturday Night Fever including Starlight Express, which performs here from November 13-24. She takes five from her hectic schedule for a little one-on-one with us before the show.

Grey Projects

Located in the heart of Tiong Bahru is this understated exhibition space that houses two galleries, a library, a working studio and a live-in residence. 

6Five Barcode

Among the glossy, high-end shops surrounding Marina Bay Sands, this multi-label boutique stands out with its raw and edgy vibe. The 1,300 sq. ft. space is home to a well-edited selection of ready-to-wear from hard-to-find labels including Karl by Karl Lagerfeld, Galliano, Ice by Iceberg, Tata Baby and C’N’C.

Tumi

The luxury American label is known for its sturdy and beautiful range of luggage as much as its collection of sleek bags, briefcases and small leather goods. For Fall/Winter 2013, expect sharp, utilitarian carriers from the Alpha Bravo range as well as bold, fiery-red pieces for the stylish jetsetter.