If one wants to buy art, one would normally go to a gallery, a dealer or an auction house. But these days, increasingly, one can also head to a restaurant or bistro. Because restaurants don’t just feed you—they have to excite your aesthetic senses as well. And with interiors being increasingly important to up an eatery’s style factor, some are going to the extent of selling the artwork right off their walls. Here are some artworks from restaurants that we admire.
The Song of India
Where is it?
33 Scotts Rd., 6836-0055.
What type of art?
Contemporary art from India and the fine artists from the region. The restaurant also serves as an exhibition space of sorts, where new artworks are featured every two to three months, in collaboration with local Indian art gallery Artmosaic.
Why do it?
An aspiration to provide “food for the stomach and soul” for their patrons. There’s also a focus on showcasing the more modern facets of Indian art, rather than just clichéd traditional images. The architectural beauty of the premises must have helped to inspire the artistic endeavors as well.
Does it fit in?
Don’t make the mistake of dressing down, for the experience here is more Bollywood glam rather than Little India casual. The posh, yet muted atmosphere of the conserved colonial bungalow foregrounds is important, as it makes the artworks stand out even more. You’ll get the feeling you’re in some art gallery or museum.
What’s the price for art?
Depending on the artist, it can be as low as $750 or as high as $20,000.
In a word:
Sophisticated.
The Wine Company
Where is it?
• The Wine Company@Dempsey
(Blk. 14-3, Dempsey Rd., 6479-9341) is their original retail outlet-cum-wine bar.
• The Wine Company@Evans
(Evans Lodge, 26 Evans Rd., 6732-1229), described as a “wine-centric restaurant.”
• Woods by the Wine Company
(Blk. 14-2 Dempsey Road, 6473-5428), a bungalow beside virgin forest, is an expansion of the Dempsey Road premises.
What type of art?
Each outlet features art from different backgrounds. The Dempsey outlet features Vietnamese art, while at Evans, the work of Mexican artist Rafael Cazares adorns the walls. Of greatest interest to proprietor Belinda Lim, though, is the work of artist and ex-NAFA instructor Low Kim Chit, displayed at Woods.
Why do it?
In a words from Lim: “Passion.” It’s clear that a lot of thought has been put into the artistic direction of the outlets. They have combined the fervor for both wine and art into a worthwhile experience for visitors, and it doesn’t hurt that it’s worth a pretty penny too. Well done.
Does it fit in?
Set up primarily to retail wine, the Dempsey outlet isn’t meant for visitors to linger. As such, the artworks there are not meant to create a sense of belonging. At Evans, though, the Art Nouveau style of the restaurant is complimented nicely by the colorful, flowing creations of Cazares. Woods is probably the most enchanting setting for art displays, with its cozy red interior and outdoor terrace set among forest lights, where Lim reserves her favorite artworks for display. Low Kim Chit’s elegant acrylic on rice paper creations are also perfectly showcased in this homely retreat.
What’s the price for art?
A piece can set you back at least $900. You may prefer to wait for Lim, an amateur painter herself, and her classmates to start selling their own works at cheaper rates in the future.
In a word:
Intoxicating.
Tavolo
Where is it?
#01-01, 5 Boon Tat St., 6423-1123.
What type of art?
Somewhat abstract but understated works by Dr Rajinder Singh, who’s “familiar with Jungian theories of the subconscious.” Like his previously exhibited works, these sketches and drawings are “free of the dictates of conscious manipulation”…hmm. Go figure.
Why do it?
It gives the diner a “refreshing” experience every visit, it seems. In other words, it encourages repeat business. The more altruistic reason given is that it’s also a venue for artists to showcase their work.
Does it fit in?
With the rather swanky yet warm look of the restaurant, it’s appropriate that the paintings aren’t too garish. Incomprehensible? That’s OK—all high art is supposed to be.
What’s the price for art?
The prices aren’t too prohibitive and range from about $400 to $1,500.
In a word:
Modish.
Rogues
Where is it?
#01-42/45 Market Street Car Park, 146 Market St., 6557-0030.
What type of art?
There is a vague intention to create some sort of “rogues’ gallery” as befits the restaurant’s name. However, the artwork at present is by young student artist Jay Freeman from Perth, whose Warhol-inspired paintings seem rather rudimentary, but were chosen for their “feminine sensual feel.” Other artists include Ronnie Wood of The Rolling Stones fame, for his roguish charm. In other words, there doesn’t seem to be any common theme, and there’s no telling what sort of artwork we might see in future.
Why do it?
Apparently, they just decided that “the windows were too bare,” and hit upon the idea.
Does it fit in?
Though the present artworks generally fit in with the elegant cosmopolitan décor, and are definitely an improvement on bare glass panels, it’s quite obvious that the setup was less than planned.
What’s the price for art?
A whopping $1,800 for a painting half the size of a door. There are plans for an upcoming silent auction though, so you could try your luck there.
In a word:
Neophyte.
