Category Archives for "Blog"

0 National Gallery Singapore to feature works of famed Indonesian artist

As a part of an ongoing project centered around the use of light in painting, National Gallery Singapore is set to display the works of a renowned artist from Indonesia — along with the work of an artist from the Philippines. The artists were both active during the 19th century and offer insights on thematic elements of art from Southeast Asia by artists who honed their skills and techniques in Europe.

Indonesia’s Raden Saleh often depicted groups of people in the middle of interacting with animals, including hunting scenes with dramatic outcomes. In one such painting, a group of individuals with noble heritage, dressed in hunting finery, are in tumult. On horseback, the hunters wheel around, trying to kill their quarry: a lion. The lion will not make it easy for them, rearing up and attacking the group from its vulnerable middle. Although the hunters are armed with pistols, swords, and rifles, the lion has already severely injured or killed several horses. One of the riders has even fallen from his saddle, lying on the ground bleeding from a head wound. All of the figures and action are depicted with rich colors and consideration for the direction in which the light is falling, reminiscent of paintings typical from this period.

Another one of Saleh’s paintings that will be on display is a lot quieter than his usual fare. The focal point of the canvas is a temple in ruins, crumbling brick by brick in the middle of a forest clearing. A number of people sit around near the path leading to the temple. It’s unclear what they are doing there. Are they villagers who live nearby? An expedition of explorers who have just rediscovered the landmark? Either way, the entire party sits in relative shade provided by the trees rimming the clearing, and the temple is illuminated by the far-off sun.

The Philippines’ Juan Luna was also responsible for spreading the beauty and importance of art from Southeast Asia. He received the majority of his art training in Spain and Germany, and became particularly famous after winning an award for one of his paintings that was displayed at a show in the Spanish capital.

There is no better way to understand your place in society and culture than by looking through an artistic lens at yourself and your life. Visit SGArtClass.com today to browse the wide selection of different art classes you can enroll yourself or a loved one in. From oil painting to assemblage art and everything between, there is truly an art class for everyone. Test yourself by learning new skills and completing projects you never before thought were possible alongside experienced art teachers. You might even surprise yourself by developing a passion and talent for completing artwork that will stick with you for the rest of your life.

To read more about the upcoming exhibit and see examples of Saleh’s work, go to http://www.thejakartapost.com/life/2017/11/09/raden-saleh-masterpieces-to-grace-singapore-exhibition.html.

0 Play on words in public artwork draws controversy

An art installation with two parts has recently been unveiled in two transit stations in Singapore, but the artist has since been mired in controversy over the installation’s name, which is a play on words.

A display that included information about the artist and artwork read “Welcome to Jingapore.” Many commuters who read the sign believed that “Jingapore” was the result of a typo instead of the actual name of the installation, and took to social media to ridicule everything from the transit system to the artist himself.

However, as the artist explained in his own social media post, he meant for the display to reflect his own view of what Singapore is. This makes sense, especially since the artist’s name is Jing Quek. Furthermore, the word “jing” in Chinese means, among other things, scenery and sights.

Amid the vitriol over the perceived mistake, though, officials have temporarily removed the display that included information about the artist and the artwork itself. Many people continue to lambast the name online, and it is unclear when the display information will be restored — or if it will be.

The artwork itself is a long, ambitious mural that features buildings and people in the way that the artist views them. Many of the people appear to look out at the viewer, creating the effect of an audience watching commuters pass through the station. Many of the people are waving, and they’re all done in a illustrated realism way, even though some people are physically much bigger than others.

The artist said that he didn’t mean any disrespect by the title of the artwork, and that he found it odd that his play on words has been so controversial. He said that he has represented the art and culture of Singapore throughout the world in his many travels, and hopes that people can talk about his art in a respectful manner and move forward from the controversy.

Have you ever wondered what it took to paint a mural? What about how to create a 3-D sculpture out of materials you simply find along your travels? If you’ve ever wondered how art works from the inside out, perhaps you should consider enrolling in an art class via SGArtClass.com. SGArtClass.com is a comprehensive website that offers art classes in everything from mural painting to recycled art and multiple genres in between. It doesn’t matter if you don’t already have background knowledge in art. Our expert teachers will be on hand to help lead you in your creative journey, teaching you the skills necessary to complete the projects you’re most interested in. Don’t forget to check out SGArtClass.com’s informative art articles and highly affordable art supplies to get started on your art experience.

To read more about the art at the transit station, as well as to read the web comments complaining about the name of the installation, go to http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/welcome-to-jingapore-mural-a-wordplay-on-artists-name-not-misspelling-says-lta.

0 Singapore gallery to host display of Chinese ink painting collection

A late, renowned Chinese ink painter will be the focus of an upcoming show at a Singaporean gallery. The artist is best known for fusing the styles of Chinese ink painting with Western themes. One of his most famous paintings is included on Singaporean currency — gibbons. He is also known as one of the founders of the distinctive Nanyang painters group. This group is considered one of the pioneers of modern Singaporean art, meaning that visitors to the show should expect to see an important slice of history.

The show also has the distinction of highlighting pieces from the artist that have not been seen for thirty years, since a previous show in China. This ink painter shows his love for nature and all things outdoors in his paintings, which come in a variety of mediums, including paper and canvas.

One of the artworks that will be on display at the show include a trio of pink-colored, long-necked birds. They preen as they stand among minimalistic reeds, pointing at various sights with their long, black, sharp beaks. The artist used a dry brush technique to loosely interpret the fluffy texture of feathers, making for an interesting and understated take on the birds.

In another painting, a pair of songbirds perch on a twig, looking as if they either just landed or are about to take off. The shakiness of the lines reflect the movement inherent in such a scene. Perhaps it is the twig itself that is swaying in the wind, putting the birds in a shaky situation. The focal point of the paper work, however, is a cluster of bright coral-colored flowers. They stand out especially since the paper used is a light brown.

No bird is too lowly for this artist, as another paper piece shows. A pair of chickens stare up at the viewer from the ground, paused in their pecking, perhaps, to see if any grain will be scattered in front of them. A mess of lines covering a portion of the paper reflect the crushed grass of a barnyard, or perhaps the long scratches of the chicken’s claws as they search for insects to eat. The framing of this particular work is one of the most interesting aspects of it, as it allows for a lot of negative space for the viewer to contemplate.

In two very modern, abstract works, the artist departs from the traditional and familiar. A mountainside is all but unrecognizable, rendered in broad, dark strokes that take up almost the entire frame. Another piece, purporting to depict herons, is instead a riot of color more reminiscent of cubism.

Visit SGArtClass.com today to find out how you can easily enroll in art classes of your choosing.

To read more about the collection and see a sneak peek slideshow of some of the paintings that will be on display at the exhibit, go to http://www.blouinartinfo.com/news/story/2628118/the-art-of-chen-wen-hsi-of-element-art-space-singapore.

0 Singapore’s Changi Airport opens new artistic terminal

Already named the best airport in the entire world, Singapore’s Changi Airport recently opened a brand new terminal to much fanfare from both passengers and airport enthusiasts alike.

The new terminal is a delightful blend of the past and future, paying tribute to the history and importance of Singapore’s culinary past with new dining and drinking spots. There is also a video display that shows the progression of architecture in Singapore over the years. As the video changes in a time lapse style, it also tells a unique love story.

For fans of the arts, the new terminal features several interesting and arresting installations. One of the most noticeable ones highlights three giant steel birds suspended from the ceiling. The birds themselves seem like they were almost woven together. In spite of the heavy material they were made from, the basket-like quality increases the belief that they really could start flapping their massive wings and take off in flight.

A major theme of the decor and design inside the new terminal is petals. Even from the very entrance of the terminal, travelers can enjoy the sight of flower petals, which nicely reflects the fact that there are thousands of living plants, trees, and flowers inside the facility. A special moving art installation runs through the middle of the terminal. It changes shape as music from a specially created song plays.

For the weary traveler, perhaps the quirkiest and quaintest touch to the terminal is the sheer volume of different chairs. Designed to be unusual, every single one of the many chairs were tested specifically to make sure that they were comfortable and cozy for people on the go. Each chair is an art exhibit of itself, offering travelers a wonderful opportunity to take photos of themselves and document their travels in a fun and unique way.

In addition to the art features of the new terminal, travelers can also expect quicker, more secure check-ins. This includes loads of self-check-in kiosks, along with a technology to match photos of passengers at gates with photos taken at other security checkpoints. There are also ample shopping and dining options.

Art can be found everywhere if a person just knows where to look. From a field dotted with wildflowers to the design of the inside of a building, you can be creatively inspired from the most mundane of things after taking a class in art. Sign up today for an art class in your favorite genre via SGArtClass.com. Whether you’re interested in landscape painting or caricature drawing or something else entirely, there is sure to be an art class that will serve to educate and inspire you — especially when led by one of our talented and experienced instructors.

To learn more about the new terminal at Singapore’s Changi Airport, as well as see pictures of the inside and its features, go to https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/flights/todayinthesky/2017/11/03/instagramable-worlds-best-airport-opens-sparkling-new-terminal-singapore/828141001/.

0 Singaporean creative minds correct stereotypes of artists

It’s a trope seen in film and popular culture, and it has persisted for a long time. Whoever the character is, he’s young. He’s creative. But he’s broke, especially if he’s chosen to try to pursue the art form he’s most passionate about. He misses out on paying rent, he requires financial support from his friends and family, and though he may be happy creatively, he’s not happy when struggling to survive and thrive in a world full of bills and other expenses.

However, a number of young and emerging Singaporean creative minds are fighting to dispel that stereotype, saying that it is completely possible, especially with the modern climate conducive to careers in arts fields, to avoid being a poor, broke artist. Making enough money to support yourself and pursuing your creative passions don’t have to be mutually exclusive. While creative thinking and hard work are required, it’s still possible to have a job you enjoy that enables you to be artistic.

One young Singaporean poet pursued her passion while also teaching poetry at a Singaporean college. She was able to share her love for writing in verse while being a writer in residence, meaning she could support herself financially while writing poetry. This poet also writes commercially, saying that as long as it’s writing, it’s related to her passion. The commercial writing enables her to be financially secure.

Another Singaporean singer and songwriter says it depends on an artist’s work ethic as to whether they can make a living on their art. He performs and writes his own music, but also works hard to organize performances for other musically inclined people. Though he works long hours, the ability to make a living doing what he likes is the most important aspect for him.

A young Singaporean who writes fiction works at an organization responsible for hosting literary events. The writer has a job in a field he cares about, which likely expands his opportunity for being inspired. On a daily basis, he interacts with other people who are focused on the importance of literature. He also helps produce plays at another nonprofit company. He knew that, though he has written and published a book, he would need extra income help to support himself.

Start exploring your creative side by enrolling in an art class. Visit SGArtClass.com to browse its wealth of different art classes you can sign up for, as well as informative articles on different artistic genres and deeply discounted art supplies for your various projects. Even if you are struggling with the the stress of a busy schedule, talented art teachers can work around your day and meet with you when and where it’s most convenient — even in the comfort of your own home. You can also choose to enroll in online courses that offer maximum flexibility.

To read more about the young Singaporean creatives’ viewpoints about struggling artists, go to http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/creativity-theres-no-need-be-struggling-artist-say-creative-practitioners.

0 Taiwan Art Bank program begins in Singapore

The Art Bank, a special program founded in Taiwan, has opened its first-ever international art exhibit in Singapore at the home where Taiwan’s representative to Singapore lives and works. The Art Bank, a program founded in order to help support new and developing Taiwanese artists, promotes the work of the beginning artists abroad in an effort to get them experience and support in the creative world. Participating artists submit pieces for consideration in the program, and organizers lend the pieces to be on display in a number of different locations. This is the first time in the program’s last four years that such a display has been opened to the public.

In all, there are nearly forty different artworks by almost thirty Taiwanese artists on display in the official’s Singapore office and residence. The works are equally split between the office area and the residence area of the facility, meaning that people who visit the office during business hours will have a chance to view the masterpieces on display. Visitors have more than a year to take the time to see the works.

The display of the artworks has an added benefit beyond supporting Taiwanese artists and decorating the walls of the office and residence of the Taiwanese representative to Singapore. In displaying the works by Taiwanese artists, organizers of the program, as well as the artists themselves, have the opportunity to engage in a cultural exchange with similar creative minds in Singapore. By Singaporean fans of art visiting and viewing the masterpieces, they have the opportunity to learn from their Taiwanese peers and incorporate those new techniques, designs, and inspirations into their own understandings and artworks. Likewise, the Taiwanese artists gaining exposure by the exhibit can learn from Singaporean culture and artistic practices, broadening their own creativity. All in all, everyone benefits — the Taiwanese representative to Singapore for having a workspace and living space full of beautiful art, the Taiwanese artists for a chance to display their work in a location that might not have ever otherwise hosted their masterpieces, and the Singaporean public, who have the unique opportunity to see these works while they are on display and learn from the creative approaches.

Engage in a cultural experience of your own by signing up for an art class via SGArtClass.com. Browse classes on everything from acrylic painting to 3-D sculpture, recycled art to fashion drawing, collage art to anime drawing and everything in between. There is sure to be a class to pique your creative curiosity. It doesn’t matter if you have a background in art and are looking to expand your skill set, or if you’ve never put paintbrush to paper to try to create your own masterpiece. Teachers with experience instructing students of all ages and abilities will help you learn and complete projects you can be proud of.

To learn more about what the Art Bank program by Taiwan entails, as well as to see some of the paintings involved in the initiative, go to http://focustaiwan.tw/news/aedu/201710260025.aspx.

0 Singaporean artworks to be on display in special Australian show

Singaporean artists will display their masterpieces alongside Australian artists’ works in a special collaboration in Sydney. The exhibit will show the ties between the creative minds of the two countries, and has enjoyed success in the past. The event is also a way to spread ideas and creative pursuits from Singapore throughout the rest of the world, as well as for Singaporean artists to be inspired by the works of the Australian artists they will be displayed with.

One of the Singaporean artworks that will be on display is a ghostly, otherworldly depiction of a forest. The installation doesn’t feature a single twig of leaf of foliage, however. The artist chose to show her interpretation of a forest, with green lights illuminating glowing glass bottles from the inside out. It’s up to the viewer to take away the deeper message here. Is it a commentary on pollution disrupting the natural world? A futuristic take on what forests might become with urbanization and a lack of conservation? A dreamscape of unique trees conjured in the minds of those with boundless imaginations?

A Singaporean filmmaker will show a series of short films throughout the event. It’s a chance for the filmmaker to embrace her heritage while sharing it with a broader global audience, offering a peek through the lens of what her experience with living and working and creating art in Singapore has been like.

Another Singaporean visual artist has created a series of installations exploring the life found in void decks — a normally empty and forgotten space on the ground floor of apartment buildings. While for many, a void deck is simply a space to pass through on the way home or the way out into the world, the artist is instead focusing on the possibilities of what a void deck might be — a gathering place, or an opportunity for a father to teach a child how to ride a bicycle for the first time. Visitors to the installations get a chance to look at unfamiliar scenes and imagine themselves there — as well as the people who usually occupy them in Singapore.

Find your place in the world by signing up to take an art class today. Visit SGArtClass.com to start browsing an intensive list of all the art classes you could enroll in. From installation art to assemblage art, video art to digital art, anime art to collage art, there is sure to be an art class that will pique your curiosity and make you passionate about being creative. Whether you’re an art student or accomplished artist looking for guidance and feedback on existing projects, or a businessperson who has always been curious about learning creative skills, experienced teachers will be on hand to lead you through curriculum designed to challenge and open your mind.

To read more about the show in Australia, as well as the Singaporean artists who will be a part of it, go to http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/arts/singapore-showcase-in-sydney-in-november-offers-art-and-food.

0 National Museum Singapore chief discusses facility’s role in the arts

As the National Museum Singapore is poised to celebrate its 130th anniversary of existence, its director, Angelita Teo, took the time to participate in a question and answer session regarding the museum’s past, how it’s contributing to Singapore’s culture presently, and future plans to keep what it has to offer relevant and valuable for visitors from both Singapore and around the world.

Teo has been a part of the facility in some capacity or another for nearly fifteen years. While the National Museum Singapore has its roots as a history museum, there has been a recent push to include more art content, particularly as Singapore itself strives to become more of an arts destination than ever. There is precedent for the facility, as Singapore opened the doors to National Gallery Singapore just in time for the nation’s 50th birthday. So it makes sense as more and more art enters into Singapore that one of the country’s flagship museums should make it a priority to get more creative, as well.

The museum offers a variety of programming throughout the year. This could come in the form of big exhibitions in partnerships with other international museums, like a recent showing of worldwide treasures from a renowned facility in Great Britain. However, Teo speaks of the quiet success of smaller, more community-driven events like exhibits on photography, fashion, and a showing of short films by Singaporean creatives. It’s the National Museum that is also behind such popular events as the Singapore Night Festival, which includes light shows, nighttime performances, and other engaging entertainment opportunities.

Teo acknowledges that there is a challenge in getting Singaporeans to visit museums in their own country. While many residents are avid travelers and often visit such facilities during their vacations, they might overlook treasures like the National Museum that are, quite literally, right in their backyards. That’s where increased marketing and programming efforts come in. Teo says it’s her responsibility — along with the responsibility of her team members — in curating content and designing events that will attract Singaporean visitors. New efforts include making the museum and its programs more inclusive, including specifically designed programs for the elderly, young children, and individuals with special needs.

The museum is also making an effort to stay relevant in a society where rapid advancements in technology and globalization are changing the very fabric of culture. That’s why the film festivals featuring Singaporean filmmakers have been so popular. Increasingly, more people are tuned into film and videos, and this is a way for the museum to reach out and offer something the public is already consuming in different forms.

Make art a bigger part of your life by enrolling in an art class today. Visit SGArtClass.com to read informative articles about art, browse deeply discounted art supplies, and view the plethora of art classes you can sign up for.

To read the complete interview with National Museum Singapore Director Angelita Teo, go to http://thepeakmagazine.com.sg/interviews/national-museum-director-reveals-grown-arts-appreciation-singapore/.

0 Orchard Road to get artsy with Christmas lights, displays

It’s already beginning to look a lot like Christmas — on Orchard Road in Singapore, anyway. Officials here have decided to take advantage of the holiday spirit and light bright Christmas displays earlier than normal, giving commuters, residents, shoppers, and visitors a chance to get in the spirit ahead of time.

This year, officials, retailers, and other organizers have many experiences planned for the Orchard Road area. Along with the gorgeous Christmas light displays, which will be illuminated until the wee hours of the night so everyone can enjoy them, there will also be times when the roadway itself will be closed to vehicles. This will give pedestrians a chance to stroll along areas they usually aren’t allowed to go, as well as enjoy the restaurants, galleries, and shops in the neighborhood. With the official lighting ceremony — which will be led by the president — coming up early next month, many are excited to join with the festivities. There will be light-up art installations coming, along with the tallest yet illuminated archway welcoming visitors to the area. As a cost-cutting measure, as well as an environmentally friendly option, LED lights will make up the illuminated display.

At the end of November, a special Christmas village will be set up for plenty of photo opportunities for passers-by. The display will be reminiscent of similar scenes throughout Europe and in other countries where Christmas is celebrated. Nearly thirty retailers and restaurants will take part in the village, and musical acts and entertainment will take place every day through the holidays. Some of the participants will also host art installations and workshops with the chance for the community to participate in a host of different activities. All in all, the earlier than normal holiday festivities at Orchard Road make for a great excuse to visit the area for those who haven’t been in a while — or those who generally don’t visit. And that’s part of the aim officials and retailers have for the celebrations. Adding new activities like the village and entertainment opportunities will help draw more people into the area, which could help give the economy an extra boost around the holiday season.

Christmas and the holiday season can be stressful times because you might not know what to get the loved ones you’re shopping for. Let SGArtClass.com help you in your shopping. If you have artsy friends and family members, consider enrolling them in an art class via the website. This practical gift will be one that keeps on giving, as your loved ones will use the skills they use in the art class you gave them for the rest of their lives. You could also find affordable art supplies available for sale on SGArtClass.com. Think about enrolling yourself in an art class, too, and learn how to create memorable, personalized art gifts, like sculptures, paintings, portraits, and more.

To read more about the Christmas light displays and holiday offerings of Orchard Road, go to http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/earlier-light-up-to-charm-daytime-shoppers.

0 Singapore print, paper-making institute marks 15 years

STPI has been reshaping art fans’ views of printmaking and other types of paper art for the past 15 years. Now, as the institute prepares to mark its 15th birthday, it is poised to make an even bigger impact on the art world in Singapore and the world beyond.

Even though there have been numerous historically important contributions in the genre of printmaking and paper art, many fans and critics of art haven’t treated such masterpieces with the same respect given to paintings and sculptures. But STPI has worked to make sure visitors appreciate printmaking and paper art, reminding them that artistic greats from Rembrandt to Hokusai of “The Wave” fame worked intimately with prints. The institute has gone even further to convince art collectors in Singapore that printed masterpieces can survive, even in the tropical climate of Singapore, which might not usually be noted for being very friendly to paper artworks. STPI has successfully offered a convenient starting point for art collectors just beginning on their creative journeys, as printed artwork is generally much more affordable than paintings or sculptures.

STPI is much more than a simple gallery. Most notable among its efforts to gain a foothold in the art world is its artists in residency program. Artists are invited to live on STPI premises while they produce their work using the institute’s cutting edge technology and tools. They also have the opportunity to collaborate with other artists and leaders in the genre, as well as become inspired by Singapore’s thriving arts scene and culture. In that way, the STPI artist residency program acts as a creative incubator for new ideas and projects for the artists, who, in turn, work to inspire Singaporeans who visit and attend shows to think outside of the box.

STPI has also been instrumental in bringing the paper and print works of talented artists all around the world to shows in Singapore. This devotion to art has culminated in the institute being the first-ever Singaporean art organization to be invited to participate in one of the illustrious Art Basel event held in Basel.

Art can take on many shapes and forms. Learn about all the different genres you can create art in by visiting SGArtClass.com. SGArtClass.com is a comprehensive website that hosts everything from informative articles and discounted art supplies to a huge collection of art classes you can enroll in. From watercolor painting to comic drawing, fashion art to assemblage art, 3-D sculpture to mural painting and everything in between, professional teachers will be on hand to work with you at every stage of the projects you’re passionate about completing. Whether you’re already an artist who wants to flex their creative muscles in another genre or someone who’s never given art a try, there’s sure to be a class for you.

To read more about STPI’s 15th anniversary and the kinds of exhibits and art efforts it produces, go to https://www.forbes.com/sites/yjeanmundelsalle/2017/10/19/art-gallery-workshop-stpi-in-singapore-celebrates-15-years-of-pioneering-print-and-papermaking/#177dfda947f8.