Despite being geographically small, Singapore's location in a vast archipelago shapes both its geopolitical outlook and cultural expressions. This exhibition explores how Singaporean artists have responded to their geographical and cultural contexts from the 19th century onwards. This period was heavily influenced by European colonial rule and the merging of varied cultural values with indigenous beliefs, sparking the advent of modern art in Southeast Asia. The phrase “Siapa Nama Kamu?” from a pivotal 1959 painting capturing Singapore's move towards self-governance, embodies these themes.
Featuring approximately 300 pieces from the National Collection and other sources, the exhibition showcases the nuanced ways artists have interpreted their surroundings and the complexities involved in recounting the art history of Singapore.
Siapa Nama Kamu? is then a question and an invitation—to consider how art can operate as a mirror to but also complicate our reality.
The DBS Singapore Gallery is made possible through a gift by DBS.