Not many people can argue against the fact that Singapore is enjoying a cultural and artistic transformation that is forever shaping art in the country. However, as is the case with most new initiatives, there have been challenges with maintaining effective leadership to shape the direction of the art movement.
One such example of this is the director of the The Substation, a popular art space in Singapore. While the art director has big plans for important initiatives focused around the space, there have been inner conflicts among the director, various artists slated to exhibit there, and the broader community as a whole.
Art communities and art directors often clash because of differences in visions and approaches. While a new art director might be focused on putting their mark on the establishment in question, it is possible that members of the community who used to be fans of the art space lose interest and move on. What is particularly troubling at this point is that the community is worried about representation. Will the art director accurately address the needs of the community? Will common interests be reflected or ignored? Will the wishes of the community for the content, message, and direction within the art space be respected? Art directors must walk a fine line to balance their personal desires for leadership with the necessity to work with the community.
The CEO of the Singapore Art Museum recently vacated the position, which remains open in a search for new leadership. Many fear that this vacancy will negatively impact the stability of the facility, which could begin a ripple effect to other art sites. Even if the position is filled, it would take a long time — and sustained leadership — to make the museum successful. There are growing pains at the beginning of every art director’s tenure. Each must learn quickly what the expectations of the surrounding community are. However, with art directors leaving museums after only one or two years, it is difficult to sustain the level of leadership necessary to be truly effective and successful.
The leader of National Gallery Singapore has held the position for three years now. What is interesting is that she doesn’t necessarily have an arts background. However, this could be important going forward in seeking lasting leadership for other art spaces. Leaders could bring their unique knowledge from their past experiences in other industries to the table, successfully reshaping and maintaining the effectiveness of the art spaces.
Are you interested in exploring art but aren’t sure where to start? Visit SGArtClass.com today to see a wide variety of art classes you can take. From textile art to oil painting, collage art to 3-D sculpture, there is sure to be an art class to suit your interests and help you grow creatively.
To read more about Singapore’s art scene and the efforts to try to search for effective leadership for it, go to http://www.todayonline.com/entertainment/arts/what-kind-leader-does-future-arts-here-need.