Explore 2024's Top Art Exhibitions in Singapore

Photo Source: National Gallery Singapore

Singapore’s art scene is a vibrant tapestry, reflecting its rich cultural diversity and innovative spirit. In 2024, the city-state boasts an exciting lineup of art exhibitions that promise to enchant and enlighten. Art, in its myriad forms from paintings to digital installations, plays a pivotal role in adding a layer of wonder and escape from the everyday hustle.

This year, whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or a curious newcomer, Singapore’s art exhibitions are set to transform the mundane into the extraordinary.

Highlighted Art Exhibitions of 2024

As we dive into the art calendar of 2024, several exhibitions stand out for their unique perspectives and immersive experiences. Each offers a window into the minds of artists both local and international, exploring themes that range from personal identity to broad societal reflections.

Frida Forever at ArtScience Museum

Starting with a tribute to one of art’s most formidable figures, the ArtScience Museum presents “Frida Forever.” Celebrating Frida Kahlo, this exhibition opens on May 4 and runs until September 1, 2024. It’s part of a broader celebration, the ‘Year of Extraordinary Women’. Kahlo’s self-portraits, which vividly capture her essence and resilience, make this exhibition a cornerstone event for those interested in exploring narratives built around identity and the human spirit.

Olafur Eliasson: Your Curious Journey at SAM

At the Singapore Art Museum, a captivating exhibition by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson, titled “Your Curious Journey,” invites attendees to reconsider their perception of environment and space. This Southeast Asian debut highlights Eliasson’s career spanning three decades, showcasing 17 major works that blend science, nature, and art in engaging ways. The exhibition also includes Singapore-exclusive installations, making it a must-visit for those intrigued by contemporary art’s power to challenge and engage.

Goddess: Brave. Bold. Beautiful. at ArtScience Museum

Another standout at the ArtScience Museum is “Goddess: Brave. Bold. Beautiful.” Set to premiere on April 6, 2024, this exhibition is a homage to women in film, featuring iconic figures like Marilyn Monroe, Laverne Cox, and Anna May Wong. The exhibit will offer an extensive look at the evolution of female representation in cinema through costumes, sketches, and interactive experiences, exploring how these portrayals have shaped societal understandings of femininity.

Cheong Soo Pieng: Layer by Layer

Exploring the depth of artistic innovation, the exhibition “Cheong Soo Pieng: Layer by Layer” delves into the work of one of Southeast Asia’s influential artists. Hosted in Singapore, this exhibition utilises cutting-edge technology like x-ray scans and infrared photography to offer new insights into Cheong’s creative process. It’s a fascinating exploration of the artistic mind at work, from inception to completion.

Small Muji Exhibition – Enjoying Everyday Items

For a lighter, yet equally intriguing experience, the “small Muji Exhibition – Enjoying Everyday Items” at Muji’s flagship store in Plaza Singapura features the works of Tatsuya Tanaka. Known for his miniature art that incorporates everyday objects, Tanaka’s exhibition promises to redefine the mundane, turning ordinary items into scenes of whimsy and imagination.

Figuring A Scene at the National Gallery

The National Gallery’s “Figuring A Scene” explores the boundaries of art through thematic and conceptual pieces. This exhibition is structured around six segments: ‘Shadow’, ‘Fruit’, and ‘Fire’, each designed to deepen the viewer’s understanding of art beyond traditional contexts. Particularly notable is the ‘Fruit’ segment, where the durian fruit is artistically reinterpreted across different mediums.

Departures | New Releases at STPI

At STPI – Creative Workshop and Gallery, “Departures | New Releases” showcases the innovative works of artists Yanyun Chen, Hong Zhu An, and Prabhavathi Meppayil. Here, the artists push the boundaries of traditional print and paper mediums during their residencies, offering visitors a glimpse into the dynamic processes of artistic creation and experimentation.

A Trail To Chase

Exploring functional art in a new light, “A Trail to Chase” presents functional art pieces by artists like Fernando Mastrangelo. This exhibition, which runs from April 12 to May 31, 2024, merges art with everyday utility, challenging perceptions and inviting visitors to contemplate the interconnectedness of our world through crafted artistic narratives.

The World of Studio Ghibli at ArtScience Museum

Anticipated with excitement, “The World of Studio Ghibli” will unfold at the ArtScience Museum in October 2024. This exhibition promises a magical journey through the iconic worlds of Ghibli films. Large-scale interactive sets and encounters with beloved characters like Totoro from “My Neighbour Totoro” are set to enchant fans and newcomers alike.

Impressions of Monet at Gardens by the Bay

Finally, “Impressions of Monet” at Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome offers an immersive experience of the life and works of Claude Monet. Opening on July 12, this exhibition recreates Monet’s iconic garden at Giverny and showcases his influence on the impressionist movement through a multi-sensorial approach.

Why Visit These Exhibitions?

Visiting these exhibitions provides more than just an aesthetic experience; it’s an educational journey that enriches understanding of cultures and histories through the lens of art. Each exhibition offers unique insights into different eras, movements, and societal themes, making them invaluable cultural experiences.

Planning Your Visit

When planning your visits to the array of art exhibitions available in Singapore in 2024, it’s important to consider several factors to optimise your experience. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:

Check Exhibition Dates and Timings: Each exhibition has specific opening and closing dates, along with daily operational hours. Some exhibitions might also offer late-night viewings or early bird sessions, which can provide a more tranquil viewing experience. Always verify these details on the official websites or through the venues’ customer service lines to ensure you visit during the optimal times.
Ticket Availability and Purchasing: For popular exhibitions, especially those featuring internationally renowned artists or unique installations, it is advisable to purchase tickets in advance. Many exhibitions offer online booking options, which can include discounts for early booking and packages that might combine multiple exhibitions or related events. Additionally, look for any special entry conditions or discounts for students, seniors, or group bookings.
Special Events and Guided Tours: Many exhibitions enhance the visitor experience with special events such as artist talks, themed tours, and interactive workshops. These events can provide deeper insights into the artworks and themes of the exhibition. Guided tours, particularly those led by curators or experts, can offer a more enriched understanding and engaging experience. Check the exhibition schedule for such events and consider aligning your visit to participate.
Accessibility and Accommodations: Ensure that the venue is accessible if you have specific mobility needs. Most modern museums and galleries in Singapore are equipped with facilities to aid visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access and sensory-friendly tours. If you’re visiting with young children, check for family-friendly services such as stroller rentals and children’s interactive guides.
Travel and Parking: Consider the best mode of transportation to the venue. Singapore boasts an efficient public transportation system that connects most parts of the city-state to the central arts districts. If you prefer to drive, check availability and rates for parking at or near the venue. Some exhibitions might be located in pedestrian-friendly zones with limited parking, making public transport or taxis more convenient options.
Nearby Attractions and Dining: To make the most of your day, explore other attractions or dining options near the exhibition venues. Many galleries and museums are situated within cultural precincts or close to vibrant dining scenes. Combining your art tour with a meal at a nearby cafe or a visit to another cultural site can round out your cultural excursion.

Singapore’s 2024 art exhibitions offer a compelling glimpse into the world of art, from historical insights to contemporary explorations. They not only showcase artistic beauty but also provoke thought, dialogue, and a deeper understanding of the complex narratives that shape our world. Engage with these exhibitions to expand your horizons and enrich your appreciation of the arts.