National Gallery Singapore exhibitions
The National Gallery Singapore is home to over 8,000 artworks, making it a treasure trove of artistic brilliance. The gallery's collection spans the 19th century to the present day, offering visitors a chance to journey through time and witness the evolution of art in Singapore and Southeast Asia.
The gallery is divided into various sections, each dedicated to a specific theme or period. The DBS Singapore Gallery and the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery are two of the main highlights. The DBS Singapore Gallery showcases the development of Singaporean art, while the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery presents a comprehensive view of Southeast Asian art history.
👀Some long-term exhibitions include:
Siapa Nama Kamu?
Source: National Gallery Singapore
- 👉Location: The DBS Singapore Gallery
This long-term exhibition is a deep dive into Singaporean art history, with works from the 19th century to the present. It explores themes of identity, nationhood, and cultural evolution through paintings, sculptures, and multimedia pieces by prominent local artists like Georgette Chen and Cheong Soo Pieng.
Between Declarations and Dreams
- 👉Location: UOB Southeast Asia Gallery, Supreme Court Wing, Level 3-5
Focusing on Southeast Asian art, this exhibition captures the region’s journey through colonisation, independence, and modernisation. Spanning from the 19th century to the 1980s, it features diverse art forms, from traditional motifs to bold modern expressions. Expect works by renowned artists such as Raden Saleh and Affandi.
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the gallery also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year. So, every visit to the National Gallery Singapore offers a new and enriching experience.
👀Some latest special exhibitions include:
Teo Eng Seng: We're Happy. Are You Happy?
Source: National Gallery Singapore
- 👉Opening hours: September 6, 2024 to February 2, 2025 and has ended.
- 👉Location: Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery 1 and The Spine Hall
The exhibition "Teo Eng Seng: We're Happy. Are You Happy?" explores the artist’s reflection on happiness, societal expectations, and the complexities of modern life. Through his unique Paperdyesculp technique, Teo challenges conventional ideas of fulfilment, blending vibrant textures and social commentary in his works.
Kim Lim: The Space Between. A Retrospective
Source: National Gallery Singapore
- 👉Opening hours: September 27, 2024 - February 2, 2025 and has ended.
- 👉Location: City Hall Wing, Level 3, Singtel Special Exhibition Galleries 2 and 3
"Kim Lim: The Space Between. A Retrospective" celebrates the groundbreaking work of Singaporean abstract artist Kim Lim. The exhibition explores her themes of space, time, and movement, delving into the concept of "the space between" through her minimalist sculptures, paintings, and prints. With works that evoke balance and the relationship between form and void, the retrospective showcases Lim’s evolution from early influences to later abstract pieces.
The National Gallery Singapore extends its art experiences online, offering a range of virtual exhibitions that you can explore from the comfort of your home. The ongoing virtual exhibition:
Stories in Light: Four Modern Photographers in Singapore
Source: National Gallery Singapore
- 👉Opening hours: September 27, 2024 - February 2, 2025 and has ended.
"Stories in Light: Four Modern Photographers in Singapore" showcases the work of four influential photographers who have captured the essence of contemporary Singapore through their unique perspectives. The exhibition highlights how these artists use light and composition to explore themes of identity, community, and the transformation of the city. Through striking images, visitors gain insight into Singapore’s social, cultural, and architectural changes.
Tips for exploring National Gallery Singapore
Visiting the National Gallery Singapore is an enriching experience. Here are some tips to make your visit even more enjoyable:
- ✅Plan your visit: The gallery is vast, and there's a lot to see. It's a good idea to check the gallery's website beforehand to know about the current exhibitions. This will help you plan your visit better.
- ✅Take a guided tour: The gallery offers guided tours that provide insights into the artworks and the history of the gallery. These tours are a great way to enhance your understanding of the art pieces.
- ✅Don't rush: The gallery is a place to relax and appreciate art. Take your time to explore each section and soak in the beauty of the artwork.
National Gallery Singapore tickets
For Singaporeans and Permanent Residents, admission to the gallery is free. For non-Singaporeans, the standard adult ticket is priced at S$14 (Trip.com discount). Concession tickets are available for children, students, seniors, and persons with disabilities at S$10 (Trip.com discount).
Free admission for:
- Singaporeans and PRs (Please select Local tickets)*
- Gallery Insiders
- Children aged 6 and below
- Local/ locally-based students and teachers^
- Persons with disabilities (PWD) and their caregivers
From qualifying institutions only. Valid verification is required. For the latest promotions and ticket prices, please visit the official National Gallery Singapore website.
Other attractions in Singapore
The National Gallery Singapore is just one of the many attractions that make Singapore a must-visit destination. Here’s a quick reference to other top attractions in Singapore:
Attraction | Opening Hours | Highlights | Check Details |
Gardens by the Bay | 09:00-21:00 | The Supertree Observatory offers unparalleled views of Gardens by the Bay’s lush surrounds and the Marina Bay area | Check Now! |
Night Safari | 18:00-00:00 | Nearly 900 animals from over 100 species in this world’s first nocturnal wildlife park, with 41% being threatened, such as the endangered Asian elephant | Check Now! |
Wild Wild Wet | 11:00/12:00-18:00 | Singapore's largest water parks, offering a variety of rides and attractions for all ages | Check Now! |
Singapore Flyer | 10:00-22:00 | One of the world's largest observation wheels, offering panoramic views of Singapore's skyline | Check Now! |
ArtScience Museum | 10:00-19:00 | With 21 gallery spaces spanning nearly 5,000m², ArtScience Museum has held large-scale exhibitions by some of the world’s best known artists | Check Now! |
🔥Pro Tip: For more ideas on what to do in Singapore, check out this list of the best things to do in Singapore in our Singapore travel guide.Visiting the National Gallery Singapore is a journey through the rich tapestry of Singaporean and Southeast Asian art. With its vast collection of artworks and its beautiful architecture, the gallery offers an unforgettable experience for art lovers.
Your National Gallery Singapore tickets are your passport to an enriching and enlightening journey into the world of art. So, get your tickets, step into the gallery, and let the world of art unfold before your eyes.
