Are you looking for a unique and memorable way to explore Singapore’s rich culture and history? Do you want to discover the diverse and vibrant art scene of Southeast Asia? If yes, then you should not miss the National Gallery Singapore, the largest public art museum in the region. The National Gallery Singapore is more than just a museum. It is a stunning architectural masterpiece, a creative learning hub, and a cultural landmark.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the National Gallery Singapore, from its history and architecture, to its art and exhibitions, to its tickets and timings, to its location and transportation, to its best time to visit. Whether you are a local or a tourist, a solo traveller or a family, a novice or an expert, you will find something to inspire and delight you at the National Gallery Singapore.
History and Architecture
The National Gallery Singapore is housed in two of Singapore’s most iconic and historic buildings: the former City Hall and the former Supreme Court. These two buildings witnessed some of the most important events in Singapore’s past, such as the surrender of the Japanese during World War II, the swearing-in of the first Prime Minister, and the declaration of independence. The buildings were also designed by prominent architects, and feature a blend of classical and tropical styles, with Corinthian columns, domes, verandas, and louvres.
The National Gallery Singapore opened in 2015, after a decade of restoration and transformation. The two buildings were carefully preserved and integrated into a seamless and modern gallery, with a stunning glass canopy, a rooftop garden, a bamboo atrium, and link bridges. The gallery also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, such as a library, an auditorium, a research centre, and a conservation lab. The gallery’s design reflects its vision and mission: to celebrate the past, present, and future of Singapore and Southeast Asia through art.
Art and Exhibitions
The National Gallery Singapore is home to the largest and most comprehensive collection of modern art from Singapore and Southeast Asia, spanning from the 19th century to the present day. The gallery showcases over 8,000 artworks from more than 400 artists, representing the diverse and dynamic cultures, histories, and identities of the region. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions from around the world, featuring renowned and emerging artists, and exploring various themes and topics.
The gallery’s permanent exhibitions are divided into two main sections: the DBS Singapore Gallery and the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery. The DBS Singapore Gallery presents the development and evolution of Singapore’s art scene, from its colonial roots, to its nationalistic aspirations, to its cosmopolitan outlook. The UOB Southeast Asia Gallery offers a broader perspective of the region’s art history, from its indigenous traditions, to its colonial influences, to its post-colonial challenges. The gallery also has several special exhibitions, such as the Keppel Centre for Art Education, which provides interactive and experiential learning opportunities for children and families, and the Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery, which showcases blockbuster exhibitions from international museums and institutions.
The gallery’s art and exhibitions are not only meant to be admired, but also to be enjoyed and understood. The gallery offers a variety of educational and interactive programs, such as workshops, talks, tours, and activities, for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The gallery also has a team of friendly and knowledgeable guides, who can help you discover the stories and meanings behind the artworks and artists.
Tickets and Timings
The National Gallery Singapore is open daily from 10 am to 7 pm, except on Fridays, when it closes at 9 pm. The gallery also has extended hours on public holidays and special occasions. The gallery’s ticket prices vary depending on the type and number of exhibitions you want to see. The general admission ticket, which gives you access to the permanent exhibitions, costs $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students, and $5 for children. The special exhibition ticket, which gives you access to the temporary exhibitions, costs $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and students, and $12 for children.
The all-access pass, which gives you access to both the permanent and temporary exhibitions, costs $40 for adults, $30 for seniors and students, and $15 for children. You can also purchase a gallery insider membership, which gives you unlimited and priority access to all the exhibitions, as well as discounts and benefits at the gallery’s shops and restaurants.
You can buy your tickets online through the gallery’s website, or at the ticketing counters at the gallery. We recommend booking your tickets online in advance, as the gallery can get crowded during peak hours and seasons. You can also book your guided tours and special events online, as they have limited slots and availability. The gallery offers free guided tours for the permanent exhibitions, which run daily at various times and languages. The gallery also offers paid guided tours for the temporary exhibitions, which run on selected days and times. The gallery also hosts special events, such as performances, screenings, festivals, and workshops, which cater to different interests and audiences.
Location and Transportation
The National Gallery Singapore is located at 1 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957, in the heart of the Civic District. The gallery is easily accessible by public transport, as it is within walking distance from the City Hall MRT station, which connects to the East-West Line and the North-South Line. You can also take a bus to the gallery, as there are several bus stops nearby, such as the Supreme Court, the Parliament House, and the Padang. If you are driving to the gallery, you can park your car at the basement car park, which has over 200 lots. The parking rates are $1.30 per half hour from 7 am to 6 pm, and $2.60 per entry from 6 pm to 7 am.
The gallery is not only a destination in itself, but also a gateway to explore the surrounding area, which is rich in history, culture, and entertainment. You can visit the nearby attractions and landmarks, such as the Singapore River, the Padang, the Esplanade, and the Marina Bay Sands, which offer stunning views and experiences. You can also enjoy the local cuisine and nightlife, as there are many restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs in the vicinity, such as the National Kitchen by Violet Oon, the Aura Sky Lounge, the Timbre, and the Chijmes. You can also make the most of your visit to the gallery and the area, by walking, cycling, or taking a river cruise, which will give you a different perspective and appreciation of the city.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the National Gallery Singapore depends on your preferences and expectations. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful and intimate experience, you should visit the gallery during the off-peak hours, which are usually in the mornings and evenings, and on weekdays. If you want to join the crowds and enjoy a more lively and festive experience, you should visit the gallery during the peak hours, which are usually in the afternoons and weekends, and on public holidays and school holidays. You should also check the gallery’s website and social media for the latest updates and announcements, as the gallery may have special events or closures that may affect your visit.
The best season to visit the National Gallery Singapore depends on the weather and the exhibitions. Singapore has a tropical climate, which means it is hot and humid all year round, with occasional rain and thunderstorms. The gallery is fully air-conditioned and sheltered, so you can enjoy the art and exhibitions regardless of the weather. However, you may want to consider the weather if you plan to explore the outdoor areas of the gallery, such as the rooftop garden, or the nearby attractions, such as the Singapore River. The gallery also has different exhibitions throughout the year, which may appeal to different tastes and interests. You may want to check the gallery’s website and social media for the upcoming exhibitions and programs, and plan your visit accordingly.
The duration and itinerary of your visit to the National Gallery Singapore depends on your interests and preferences. You can spend as little or as much time as you want at the gallery, depending on how many exhibitions you want to see, and how deeply you want to explore them. You can also customize your visit according to your needs and goals, whether you want to learn, discover, create, or relax.
Suggestions for Visitors
Here are some suggestions for different types of visitors:
If you are a first-time visitor, you may want to spend at least 3 to 4 hours at the gallery, and see the highlights of the permanent exhibitions, such as the Siapa Nama Kamu? (What is your name?) and the Between Declarations and Dreams. You may also want to join a free guided tour, which will give you an overview and introduction of the gallery and its art. You may also want to visit the Keppel Centre for Art Education, which has fun and interactive activities for children and families.
If you are a repeat visitor, you may want to spend at least 2 to 3 hours at the gallery, and see the latest temporary exhibitions, such as the Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery, which showcases blockbuster exhibitions from international museums and institutions. You may also want to join a paid guided tour, which will give you a deeper and more detailed insight into the artworks and artists. You may also want to visit the library, the auditorium, or the research centre, which have more resources and information for art enthusiasts and scholars.
If you are a casual visitor, you may want to spend at least 1 to 2 hours at the gallery, and see the artworks and exhibitions that catch your eye and interest. You may also want to relax and enjoy the views and ambiance of the gallery, such as the rooftop garden, the glass canopy, the bamboo atrium, and the link bridges. You may also want to visit the gallery’s shops and restaurants, which offer a range of souvenirs and cuisines to suit your taste and budget.
If you are a passionate visitor, you may want to spend at least 4 to 5 hours at the gallery, and see as many artworks and exhibitions as you can. You may also want to explore and appreciate the details and nuances of the art and the artists, and their connections and influences. You may also want to participate and engage in the gallery’s programs and events, such as workshops, talks, tours, and activities, which will enrich and enhance your experience and understanding of the art.
The National Gallery Singapore is a must-visit destination for art lovers, and anyone who wants to discover and appreciate the beauty and diversity of Singapore and Southeast Asia. The gallery offers a unique and unforgettable experience, as it combines the best of history, architecture, art, and culture, in one stunning and modern space. The gallery also caters to different types of visitors, with its variety of exhibitions, programs, and facilities, to suit different interests and needs. Whether you want to learn, discover, create, or relax, you will find something to inspire and delight you at the National Gallery Singapore.
If you are interested in visiting the National Gallery Singapore, you can book your tickets and tours online through the gallery’s website, or at the ticketing counters at the gallery. You can also follow the gallery’s social media accounts, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, for the latest news and updates on the gallery and its art. You can also share your feedback and experiences with the gallery and its art, by leaving a comment, rating, or review on the gallery’s website or social media platforms.
We hope you enjoyed this article, and we hope to see you soon at the National Gallery Singapore. Thank you for reading, and have a wonderful day.
