National Gallery Singapore | Central Region

National Gallery Singapore is a premier art museum in the heart of Singapore, dedicated to showcasing Southeast Asian art from the 19th century to the present. It stands as a major cultural institution in Singapore, highlighting the country’s rich artistic heritage while promoting contemporary art from the region. The Gallery brings together both historical and modern works, offering an immersive experience for art lovers and visitors interested in learning about the region’s diverse art scenes.

1. History and Development

The National Gallery Singapore was officially opened in 2015, but its origins trace back much earlier. The museum occupies two historic buildings, the Former Supreme Court and the City Hall, both of which are significant landmarks in Singapore’s colonial history.

• Supreme Court Building: Completed in 1939, this grand building was once home to Singapore’s highest court. It is an architectural masterpiece, combining neoclassical and art deco styles.
• City Hall: Built in 1929, this building was the site of important moments in Singapore’s history, such as the official Japanese surrender in 1945 and the declaration of Singapore’s independence in 1959. It has been a central part of the country’s political life.

The buildings were carefully restored and transformed into a world-class art gallery. The integration of modern design with the original colonial architecture preserves the heritage while providing a space to celebrate contemporary Southeast Asian art. The museum was designed by Studio Milou and César Pelli, and its opening marked the culmination of years of planning and restoration.

2. Collection and Exhibits

The National Gallery Singapore houses one of the largest collections of Southeast Asian art in the world, with an emphasis on Singaporean and regional works. The museum’s collection is extensive, including:

• 19th and 20th Century Southeast Asian Art: This includes both traditional and colonial-era works, offering insights into the evolution of art in the region during the colonial period and into the modern era. The Gallery's collection features works that explore themes of identity, culture, and historical change.
• Singaporean Art: The museum highlights Singapore’s artistic heritage, showcasing the works of local artists. It plays a key role in preserving and promoting Singapore’s art history, with works that date from the 19th century to the present day.
• Contemporary Southeast Asian Art: In addition to its historical collection, the museum focuses on contemporary art from Southeast Asia, offering exhibitions and installations that highlight the region's vibrant and dynamic contemporary art scene.

The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works by some of the most influential artists from Southeast Asia. It serves as a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their works to a global audience.

3. Key Galleries and Exhibitions

The National Gallery Singapore is divided into several themed galleries that reflect different periods and artistic movements, including:

• The UOB Southeast Asia Gallery: This gallery is one of the most important in the museum, featuring over 400 works from across Southeast Asia. It offers visitors a deep dive into the diverse art forms and artistic traditions of the region.
• The DBS Singapore Gallery: Dedicated to Singaporean art, this gallery houses works that chronicle the country’s artistic journey from colonial times to its modern-day identity. It includes a variety of mediums such as paintings, prints, and photography.
• The Tang Shiping Wing: This section of the gallery showcases more contemporary works and often hosts rotating exhibitions that reflect the latest trends and movements in the global art scene.
• Special Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts rotating special exhibitions that focus on particular themes or artists. These exhibitions often include works from international artists, and the museum’s curatorial team also organizes traveling exhibitions to further expand its offerings.

4. Architecture and Design

The architectural design of the National Gallery Singapore is one of its defining features. The museum seamlessly integrates the historical buildings of the Supreme Court and City Hall with contemporary architectural elements, creating a space that is both historic and modern.

• The Glass Dome: One of the most striking features of the museum is the glass dome that sits above the former Supreme Court. This vast glass atrium brings natural light into the central courtyard and allows visitors to appreciate the juxtaposition of old and new architectural elements.
• Roof Terrace: The museum boasts an impressive rooftop terrace that provides a panoramic view of the city’s skyline, including the Marina Bay Sands and the nearby civic district. The roof terrace also features sculptures and installations, adding an outdoor dimension to the art experience.
• Gallery Spaces: The museum's gallery spaces are designed to be spacious and flexible, allowing for large-scale installations as well as more intimate presentations of art. The layout encourages visitors to engage with the art in a meaningful and reflective way.

5. Educational and Cultural Programs

The National Gallery Singapore is not just a place to view art; it is also a center for education and cultural exchange. The museum offers a range of programs and activities aimed at both the general public and art professionals:

• Public Programs: The museum organizes regular talks, artist tours, workshops, and performances. These programs are designed to engage visitors with the exhibits in a deeper way and to promote discussions around the themes presented in the art.
• School and Family Programs: Educational initiatives for schoolchildren and families are an important part of the museum’s outreach efforts. Workshops, art-making sessions, and tours tailored to younger audiences are frequently held to foster a love for art in the next generation.
• Research and Publications: The National Gallery is also involved in art research and produces publications and catalogues that document its collection and exhibitions. This scholarly work supports the understanding and preservation of Southeast Asian art history.

6. Café and Dining

The museum has a range of dining options, offering visitors a chance to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink in a beautiful setting.

• The National Kitchen by Violet Oon: Located on the museum’s rooftop, this restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Peranakan and Singaporean cuisine. It is a popular spot for both museum-goers and locals.
• Courtyard Café: Situated in the museum’s central courtyard, this café serves light refreshments and offers a relaxing environment for visitors to enjoy a coffee or tea in between their gallery visits.
• Art Bar: Located on the rooftop terrace, the Art Bar offers drinks and a place to enjoy the views of the city.

7. Location and Accessibility

The National Gallery Singapore is located in the Civic District of Singapore, making it easily accessible to visitors. It is a short walk from other key attractions, such as the Merlion Park, Marina Bay Sands, and Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay.

The museum is easily accessible by public transport, with the nearest Raffles Place MRT Station just a short walk away. There are also plenty of buses and taxis that serve the area.

8. Conclusion

The National Gallery Singapore is a landmark institution that plays a vital role in promoting and preserving the art and culture of Southeast Asia. With its rich collection, stunning architecture, and diverse educational programs, it offers an unparalleled art experience. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history lover, or simply someone interested in learning more about the cultural history of Southeast Asia, the National Gallery Singapore is a must-visit destination in the city. It continues to position Singapore as a leading hub for the arts in the region, providing a platform for both traditional and contemporary artistic expressions.