From January 13-19 2014, Singapore’s visual arts scene will come alive with the return of Singapore Art Week. Join art collectors and enthusiasts from all over the world as they flock to Singapore to attend the flurry of multisensory blockbuster art events and exhibitions around the city. Here is our pick of four not-to-be-missed events for all arts aficionados.
Art Stage Singapore
Seize the opportunity to enjoy the newest and most cutting edge masterpieces at the fourth edition of Asia’s leading contemporary art fair. Underscoring the fair’s Asian identity, Asia-Pacific galleries form 80% of the 100 galleries, and are set to exhibit a stunning range of quality works. This year, fair goers can also look forward to eight specially curated Platforms; each curated with a museum-like layout showcasing art from a specific region or country—such as Southeast Asia, China, and Japan. You will also get the chance to attend guided tours as well as talks and panel discussions featuring renowned artists and curators.
Jan 16-19 2014. Halls D, E, F, Level B2, Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, 10 Bayfront Ave., www.artstagesingapore.com. S$33 (day pass), S$63 (season pass).
An Evening at Gillman Barracks
Formerly a colonial barracks, this picturesque enclave comprising 16 galleries is Asia’s latestn contemporary art destination. On opening night, galleries will premiere their new shows, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy Gillman Barrack’s diverse art offerings while connecting with fellow art lovers. During the week, be sure to stop by the Centre for Contemporary Art for exhibitions and engaging talks by art professionals. Also, don’t miss out on experimental pop-up concept, The U Factory, an eclectic showcase of Singaporean tastemakers in design, culture, art and dining.
Jan 17 2014. (Exhibitions are ongoing throughout the whole of Art Week.) 9 Lock Rd., www.gillmanbarracks.com. Free admission.
Singapore Biennale
Singapore’s premier contemporary art exhibition invites you to reconsider the world we live in through this multi-venue showcase. Titled If The World Changed, the Biennale draws on the expertise of 27 curators and features over 100 artworks from 82 artists and artist collectives. This is also the first time that more than half the works on show will be Biennale commissions. The majority of artworks are concentrated at venues in the Bras Basah and Bugis areas, making it more convenient to move from one venue to another. If you have a smartphone, you can download the special Biennale app to guide you through three special walking trails or even create your own trails based on works that you are interested in.
Through Feb 16 2014. Various venues, www.singaporebiennale.org. $10.
ART IN MOTION
Don’t forget to sign up for this bespoke art tour that will bring you to 13 participating galleries across the city’s arts and heritage district, including Raffles Hotel Arcade, Tanjong Pagar Distripark and Old Hill Street Police Station. With each gallery putting up their best exhibitions and programs, you will get to enjoy Singapore’s vibrant gallery scene in a hassle free experience. You can also look forward to mingling with artists and the who’s who of the art industry at the official launch as well as at the various brunches andcocktail receptions during the tour.
Jan 18-19 2014. Various venues. To register, log onto www.agas.org.sg or email [email protected]. Free admission.
This article was brought to you by Singapore Art Week.