Inflatable Installation Takes Art To New Heights At National Gallery Singapore's Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden

SINGAPORE, 30 May 2023 – National Gallery Singapore is honoured to announce the launch of renowned artist Shilpa Gupta's latest artwork, Untitled as part of the Gallery’s annual Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Commission Series. The thought-provoking installation pushes the boundaries of art, exploring themes of physicality, perception, and the complexities of human existence.

Gupta's Untitled delves into the intriguing contradictions inherent in human behaviour, inviting us to question and reflect on the complexities of geopolitical struggles, social conflicts and internal dialogues within individuals' psyches.

The viewers first encounter the two intertwined bodies locked in combat from a distance via the two far end entrances of the terrace. As they walk towards them, a revelation occurs—the bodies are perched atop a single head. The intertwined bodies reveal a tapestry of meanings, encouraging reflection on physical and emotional wounds endured by all.

Set on an elevated platform resembling an arena, the artwork is enveloped by the visual density of a bustling metropolis, offering a visceral experience of art, architecture and Singapore's urban skyline. It prompts visitors to reflect on their own experiences within a vibrant city and how conflict, duality and the complexities of existence manifest in their lives.

Gupta's unconventional choice of inflatable medium challenges traditional conventions, opening new possibilities. The soft and malleable nature creates contrast with the surroundings, enhancing the visual impact and audience experience. Visitors are encouraged to touch and interact with the artwork, particularly children who will find themselves intrigued and inspired by its stories.

Shilpa Gupta said, “I seek to create spaces that challenge preconceived notions and to initiate conversations across wider audiences. The work on the terrace explores the complexities - outside and inside of ourselves. I am excited that this proposal was selected by the National Gallery and that it will run in parallel to the children's biennale as it creates opportunity to share a series of interactive art activities and an online game that are being developed as extensions of the work!”

Complementing the artwork is Artivities: Exploring Inner and Outer Worlds through Art, an activity book launching in August 2023 that comprises colourfully illustrated sheets, co-created with an experienced art therapist, Rosemary U-Ling McGowan. The sheets will guide children and adults through art activities, facilitating their exploration of emotions and reactions, as well as their personal and external conflicts and complexities.

Launching in September 2023 is an interactive web-based game inspired by Gupta's style and themes. This visually stunning game provides real-time multiplayer matches and engaging social features for friendly competition and interaction.

The Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Commission series invites one leading international artist each year to present site-specific works reflecting Southeast Asia's cultural heritage. Previous commissioned artists include Danh Vo, Rirkrit Tiravanija, and Cao Fei. The Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Commission is made possible through a generous gift by Far East Organization.

Untitled by Shilpa Gupta will be on display at the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery, Level 5, City Hall Wing at National Gallery Singapore from 4 June 2023 to 31 March 2024. Admission is free.

For more information, please visit: https://www.nationalgallery.sg/shilpagupta. The artist’s biography is available in Annex A. Description of the artwork is available in Annex B. Accompanying programmes are available in Annex C.