The Singapore Biennale returns for its 6th edition this weekend, and will run from November 22 to March 22 next year.
Featuring 77 artists and art collectives from Singapore, Southeast Asia and around the world, the international contemporary art exhibition carries the theme 'Every Step in the Right Direction' this year.
The curated list of exhibitions, talks and artworks draw on the importance of making choices and the human endeavour for change, and invites participation through the act of artistic exploration.
"The Singapore Biennale 2019 puts its faith squarely in the potential of art (and its understanding) to rework the world," said Patrick Flores, Artistic Director of Singapore Biennale 2019.
Here are some exciting programmes to look out for:
From the Coromandel Coast to the Straits: Revisiting Our Tamil Heritage
The exhibition explores ancient trade, religious, political and cultural contacts between the Tamils of the Coromandel Coast and Southeast Asia from the early years of the Common Era. Tracing a two-way flow of culture, this is the Indian Heritage Centre’s fourth special exhibition, and highlights the history, culture and contributions of 19th century Tamils in Singapore.
Lorongs of Wisdom – Geylang Adventures
Set against soaring skyscrapers and all that glitters in Singapore, this is a tour through its contrasting underbelly.
With the help of different stakeholders on the ground, Geylang Adventures presents a multi-disciplinary interpretation of the neighbourhood and the changes over the years. From the contrasts of vice and exploitation to the practices within religious institutions, be captivated by the shared narratives that emerge. The journey is hosted by residents ‘Ah Boy’ and ‘Ah Girl’ and showcases perspectives of the secret lives of five unique people in Geylang.
Suddenly Turning Visible: Art and Architecture in Southeast Asia (1969–1989)
In 1981, the Filipino artist and curator Raymundo Albano adopted the expression ‘Suddenly Turning Visible’ to describe the rapid transformation of Manila’s urban landscape. The driving force was the logic of developmentalism—a desire for rapid economic growth in which art had a critical role. Artists and architects advanced varying perspectives towards this new vision. This new art would freely reinvent international movements such as abstraction as well as folk traditions rooted across Southeast Asia.
This exhibition traces this story, illuminating the lesser-known links between architecture, modern art and the role of institutions in Southeast Asia.
The Posthuman City Climates. Habitats. Environments.
Through imaginative propositions at the intersection of art, design, and architecture, The Posthuman City devles into what it means to be human. It also addresses issues of sustainability, water scarcity, invisible communities, nature as a form of culture, and suggest the implementation of lived indigenous knowledge.
Kopi, Teh and Contemporary Art – National Gallery Singapore
Specially designed for seniors, these multilingual tours will allow them to discover contemporary art and enjoy a treat of kopi and teh (coffee and tea) at the end of the tour.
