Singapore is spoilt for choice in terms of the vast array of art both on public display around the parks and waterways of our great country. The country revels in the cultural splendour of exciting galleries, private collections and museums that locals and tourist simply must visit if living or passing through Singapore. We've put together some of the must-see museums for those looking for an enriching artistic experience. 

National Museum of Singapore

Most often the art enthusiast's first stop on their way through a journey into art in Singapore is the iconic National Museum of Singapore. Since first opening its doors in 1887, the museum has hosted not only some of the most important works and artifacts of Singapore but held events and exhibitions that bring together people from all walks of life throughout the globe. Boasting the Singapore History Gallery, The Fashion Gallery, Film & Wayang Gallery, Food Gallery, Photography Gallery and much more, the centre boasts multiple language guided tour, making the space suitable for a global audience of museum lover. With exhibitions from science to food packaging, the youth art festival and The Lives of Women in Singapore, nothing in the world of art, design, history or cultural significance is missed at the National Museum of Singapore.

Asian Civilisations Museum

Meticulously staged to provide the ultimate art and history experience, the Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore is segmented into a number of "thematically organized galleries to emphasize networks and flows of people, ideas, belief systems, and artistic traditions. At present, the museum is still completing its multi-year refresh".

With a focus on education and development of the artistic minds of the past, present and future, the Asian Civilisations Museum has a significant undertaking when it comes to the provision of education-based programs for its patrons. The Asian Civilisations Museum proudly hosts a wide range of events, exhibitions and festivals, such as the "Living with Ink: The Collection of Dr Tan Tsze Chor" from 8 November 2019 to 22 March 2020. This exhibition specifically explores the passion and connoisseurship of Chinese art, and provides a glimpse into the Singapore art world in the turbulent 20th century.

With the purpose of being "devoted to exploring the rich artistic heritage of Asia, especially the ancestral cultures of Singaporeans", one cannot go past this museum when looking to learn more about the art of Singapore and Asia as a region.

Singapore Art Museum

Although currently under renovation, the Singapore Art Museum has a focus on contemporary art, with an aim to have everyone "think, feel, experience and imagine".

Housed in a restored 19th-century mission school, Singapore Art Museum opened its doors in 1996 as the first art museum in Singapore. The centre is also known as SAM, and is well-known in the region to be a contemporary art museum.

Having established one of the "one of the world's most important public collections of Southeast Asian contemporary artworks", the SAM has now started to grow its collection of international works, fast becoming a world-recognized stop on any international contemporary art tour.

With a core focus on education and research, the SAM is looking to the future of the in the region, and ensuring the longevity of all art, but particularly that within the contemporary space.

With so much to choose from when looking at the 'must visit' museums around Singapore, it is always best to understand where you are going and what you are looking for. From that, speaking with experts in fine art, such as the team from Art Works is a great place to start.

Having Asian art specialists, especially those looking at works that are set for future appreciation not only within the art community but also in asset value can provide anyone insights into the bright future of Asian art. Speak to the team today on (65) 6557 2250 or info@artworks.com.sg to set up an appointment.