Urbanization, the term coined for the process of people increasingly moving out of rural areas and into urban and suburban areas, is an issue that everyone should find important. The term defines a shift in culture and society, as well as an important difference for different regions around the world. Urbanization is also linked to industrialization — a key concern for those worried about the environment and the effects of people forgoing rural ways, including working on farms, in favor of finding work in cities.
Urbanization is so important that it has even reached the attention of artists and the wider art world. For 2016’s Art Stage Singapore, those artists participating in the show will use their exhibitions to explore just what it means to urbanize for both people and places, as well as society as a whole.
Art Stage Singapore will take on the idea of urbanization with an exhibition of works related to the phenomenon as well as a number of expert speakers exploring all the ramifications of the growing trend of moving into cities. Architects, city planners, and more will be on hand to discuss how cities must prepare for a growing influx of new residents and the theme of how art can help shape urbanization. The exhibition will include artwork by artists who have experienced urbanization — for better or for worse — in their own homes, such as an Indonesian artist who will talk about pollution from a factory negatively affecting the country’s fishing industry. Urbanization can be a double-edged sword, cutting both the positive and the negative, and Art Stage Singapore will examine all facets of the issue — through art.
Art Stage Singapore is the next art event to promote the interests and issues of importance to the Southeast Asia region. The organizer of the event, which will take place in January, acknowledged that there have been a number of recent gallery closings that have taken their toll on the nation’s art scene. However, he is reassured that certain aspects of life, including art, cannot continue to grow bigger without some moments of shrinking. Art Stage Singapore will act as the culminating venue for Singapore’s Art Week.
Art is an excellent way to explore the world around you, no matter what issues you might be interested in. That’s why it’s essential to invest your learning in art whenever you can. SGArtClass.com is an excellent resource for you to pursue topics that make your creative side light up, such as portrait drawing, assemblage art, found sculptures, mural painting, and much more. Find an art class that complements the interests you already have. For example, if you are devoted to activism, think about signing up for a poster class to see how you can spread the word of the causes you’re most passionate about to a wider audience. Our teachers are ready to assist you in your creative pursuits no matter what level of comfort you have with art.
For more information about plans for next year’s art fair, go to http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/arts/next-years-art-stage-singapore-art-fair-to-launch-talks-and-exhibition-on-theme-of.