The National Gallery Singapore is not merely the country`s largest art museum; it is a grand symbol of the synthesis of history and modernity. It occupies two of the city`s most significant historical buildings - the former Supreme Court and City Hall - which have been meticulously restored and connected under one roof by a futuristic atrium.
Opening its doors in 2015, the gallery became the culmination of a more than decade-long project dedicated to preserving national heritage and establishing a world-class centre for the art of Southeast Asia.
History of the Buildings: From Justice and Power to Art
A walk through the gallery is a journey through time. Each building holds its own unique memory:
• Former City Hall: This building, with its monumental classical facade, is familiar to every Singaporean. It was here, in 1959, that Singapore proclaimed self-governance, and in 1965, its independence was declared. Its walls witnessed the key moments of the nation`s birth. The luxurious columns and grand staircase create a sense of connection to history.
• Former Supreme Court Building: Constructed in 1939, this building embodies British colonial justice. Its dome and facade, adorned with sculptures, speak of the solemnity of the law. Today, the original setting of Former Courtroom 1 has been preserved, allowing visitors to sit on the wooden benches and imagine the turbulent court sessions of the past. And directly beneath the dome lies one of the city`s most impressive viewing platforms.
These two symbols of colonial and national history, long standing separate, were united into a single complex through a bold architectural solution. A glass atrium and two new link bridges were built between them, symbolizing a dialogue between eras.
Collections and Masterpieces: Art of Singapore and the Region
The gallery holds one of the world`s largest public collections of Singapore and Southeast Asian art from the 19th century to the present day. The exhibition is divided into two main parts:
1. Singapore Art (DBS Singapore Gallery) in City Hall: This gallery guides visitors through the key periods of Singaporean art development—from early works by European travellers and the "Nanyang" (Southern Seas) style to contemporary installations.
Famous Work: Epic Poem of Malaya by Chua Mia Tee. This monumental painting, created in a hyperrealistic style, has become an icon of national art, depicting the determination and hopes of the generation that built modern Singapore.
2. Southeast Asian Art (UOB Southeast Asia Gallery) in the Supreme Court Building: Here, works by artists from Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and other countries in the region are displayed, exploring common themes of colonialism, war, identity, and modernization.
Famous Work: The Death of a Deer by Raden Saleh (Indonesia). This dramatic and innovative for its time canvas by Indonesia`s first modern artist, painted under the influence of European Romanticism, is a jewel of the collection.
The Rooftop and Panorama: Art from a Height
A key highlight for tourists in the gallery is the Panorama Roof Terrace atop the Supreme Court building, located beneath the historic dome. It offers one of the best views over Singapore. You can see a panorama of the business district, the domes of the Esplanade Theatres, the futuristic silhouette of Marina Bay Sands, and the historic spires of St. Andrew`s Cathedral. It is the perfect spot for photography.
The National Gallery is a place deeply connected with Singapore`s history. You don`t just look at paintings; you walk through halls where the nation`s destiny was decided and peek into former prison cells that have been transformed into exhibition spaces. It is a profound and multifaceted experience, compelling for any traveller.
