3 Artworks to See at National Gallery Singapore

With two permanent galleries showcasing extensive art collections from Singapore and Southeast Asia, spanning the 19th century to today, which three artworks do you need to see during your visit to the Gallery? Whether you’re an art lover or just curious about Singapore’s creative heritage, these pieces offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s artistic evolution — from early masterpieces to contemporary works that spark the imagination.

Artist and Model by Liu Kang

Where to see it: City Hall Wing, Level 2, DBS Singapore Gallery 2

A pioneer of the Nanyang art movement, Liu Kang captures a quiet, thoughtful moment in Artist and Model. The painting shows fellow artist Chen Wen Hsi sketching a model during their travels in Indonesia, revealing the dynamic between artist, subject, and setting.

Liu Kang employs bold outlines and solid colours reminiscent of batik, reflecting his experiments with the technique and his vision of blending Eastern and Western artistic traditions — a distinctive visual language that continues to influence Singapore’s art landscape today.

National Language Class by Chua Mia Tee

Where to see it: City Hall Wing, Level 2, DBS Singapore Gallery 2

One of the most recognisable works in National Gallery Singapore, Chua Mia Tee’s National Language Class captures a pivotal moment in the nation’s cultural history. The painting reflects post-war hopes, identity-building, and the everyday people shaping Singapore’s future. The painting depicts a Malay language lesson, with the blackboard asking “Siapa nama kamu?” (“What is your name?”). In a newly independent nation, language played a key role in shaping identity and fostering unity.

Chua Mia Tee was a leading figure in Singapore’s social realist art movement, co-founding the Equator Art Society in 1956. His work often highlighted the lives of the working class and the overlooked, using art as a tool to reflect social realities. This piece, with its detailed, empathetic portrayal of students during post-war times continues to resonate with visitors across generations.

Red Morning Glory and Rotten Gun by Pratuang Emjaroen 

Where to see it: Supreme Court Wing, Level 3, UOB Southeast Asia Gallery 10 

Thai artist Pratuang Emjaroen delivers a haunting, emotionally charged scene in Red Morning Glory and Rotten Gun. Filled with decaying rifles, skulls, and a crying Buddha, the painting is his response to the violent crackdown on student protests at Thammasat University in 1976. 

The surreal imagery — from limp weapons to a lone glowing flower — reflects both devastation and resilience. Pratuang’s work reminds us of the profound ways in which artists confront history and politics, translating complex events into unforgettable visual narratives. Using this dreamlike landscape to comment on political unrest and human suffering, the artist creates a powerful statement that lingers with viewers long after they leave the gallery. 

Plan Your Visit

After seeing these three highlights, continue your journey through the Gallery’s expansive art collections. Dive deeper in Singaporean and Southeast Asian art with the Gallery’s permanent exhibitions:

Singapore Stories: Pathways and Detours in Art

Explore over 300 artworks tracing Singapore’s artistic journey from the 19th century to today. Follow the paths of artists such as Georgette Chen, Liu Kang, and Chen Wen Hsi, and see how they navigated identity, reimagined traditions, and reflected a changing society.

Between Declarations and Dreams: Art of Southeast Asia since the 19th Century

This exhibition showcases modern and contemporary Southeast Asian works that highlight political, social, and cultural shifts across the region. From bold statements to experimental techniques, it provides context for the development of regional and Singaporean art.

Ticketing and Visit Information

General admission to see these highlights is free for Singaporeans and PRs, while international visitors can purchase tickets for SG$20. For the full experience, consider joining as a Gallery Insider — members enjoy unlimited access to all ongoing exhibitions, exclusive previews, and special events.

Plan your visit and start exploring today!