Story DA THUONG
Photos TEAM LAB, CHANGI AIRPORT

The convergence of digital technology and culture is bringing new energy to the Lion City.

Singapore’s museums and institutions offer an exceptional arts and culture experience

Often thought of as a massive commercial hub, Singapore has recently emerged as a destination for art lovers, creatives, and those eager to explore and experience culture.

It’s apparent that this island nation values and flexibly incorporates art into daily life. Artworks are proudly displayed at Changi Airport, in public areas, shopping malls, restaurants, and cafes, each accompanied by thoughtful descriptions. Singapore also regularly hosts major art exhibitions and fairs such as the Singapore Biennale, Stage and Art SG, stimulating market development. Visiting always brings new highlights and experiences to discover.

Singapore has strategically positioned itself as the art center of Southeast Asia, establishing and operating programs at an international standard. As digital technology and artificial intelligence increasingly transform our lives, the country also offers numerous events and experiences for visitors to explore the fusion of art and tech.

Many large-scale and unique art pieces that reflect a blend of Asian influences and modern digital advancements in the tiny city-state. Among the most impressive is the Samsara exhibition by renowned artist Hsin-Chien Huang at the ArtScience Museum. This engaging virtual reality experience lets viewers use 3D glasses to perceive a simulated space, provoking deep reflections on past, present and future.

Huang, an award-winning artist recognized at prestigious global platforms like the Venice VR Film Festival and Cannes XR, presents Samsara as a profound exploration of Earth post-calamity and the cycle of existence, drawing inspiration from the Buddhist concept of reincarnation.

The Samsara exhibition by renowned artist Hsin-Chien Huang at the Art Science Museum

Another not-to-be-missed digital experience is the mesmerizing Digital Light Canvas by teamLab in The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, adjacent to the museum. Here, you can easily interact with user-friendly technologies (especially appealing to children) that are more accessible than the original teamLab museums in Tokyo.

Don’t overlook the massive 14-meter tall digital waterfall, The Wonderfall, flanked by lush hanging gardens in Changi Airport’s T2, recreating the pristine beauty of a natural cascade flowing over towering rocks. You can also explore the enchanting “digital sky” Dreamscape, a vibrant garden with meandering streams where flora, sky and the sounds of life vividly intermingle. The sky’s color changes with the time of day, offering viewers an experience akin to witnessing the transition from day to night in a real garden.

At Terminal 4, visitors can immerse themselves in a journey through heritage via a state-of-the-art projection system on the Heritage Wall, inspired by Peranakan houses. The technology allows audiences to view cheerful short films depicting Peranakan love stories between two passionate artists living next to each other. The slow, relaxing passage of time and the charming melody of Bunga Sayang transport you to a romantic and sweet Singapore of the past.

Another upcoming art-technology experience in Singapore is the sixth edition of the S.E.A. Focus art exhibition, scheduled from January 20 to 28, 2024, at 39 Tanjong Pagar Distripark. Attendees will explore the fascinating interaction between humans and technology that awaits in the future. Themed Serial and Massively Parallel, the exhibition showcases selected artworks from 23 galleries and over 40 artists worldwide.

Singapore continues to demonstrate its leadership in Southeast Asia in economic development, innovation and investment. As digital technology and artificial intelligence increasingly impact our lives, the Lion City ceaselessly introduces new experiences that probe the nature of creativity, development and the future world.