Singapore Biennale returns on Friday and runs until March 29 next year, inviting visitors to reimagine Singapore.
Coinciding with the city-state’s 60th birthday this year, the eighth edition of the biennale is anchored by the theme “Pure Intention”. Curated by Hsu Fang-Tze, Selene Yap, Duncan Bass and Ong Puay Khim, the event features more than 80 artists and over 100 works, including more than 30 new commissions.
Singapore Biennale 2025 (SB2025) is commissioned by the National Arts Council, Singapore and organised by Singapore Art Museum.
Under “Pure Intention”, the biennale explores the evolution of Singapore. Visitors can look forward to art in unexpected places — from pre-colonial and colonial landmarks to shopping malls, historic housing estates and green spaces. Locations include Rail Corridor South, Wessex Estate, Tanglin Halt, Civic District, Orchard and Tanjong Pagar Distripark.
In a joint statement, the curators said: “SB2025 provides a unique opportunity for us to reflect on the many ways our city has been shaped by its architecture and systems, as well as the people who move through it. By inviting diverse voices to respond to themes of rapid urban development, historical contradictions and speculative futures with pure intention, this edition unpacks Singapore’s multifaceted realities within global narratives. In activating spaces that are part of our daily rhythms, we hope to foster greater dialogue across cultures and communities, sparking moments of connection and curiosity towards the cosmopolitan futures we share.”
A nature trail that bears memories of its commercial route, the Railway Corridor features installations from two Thai artists. In collaboration with Guo-Liang Tan from Singapore, Apichatpong Weerasethakul, a filmmaker and artist who has won awards at the Cannes Film Festival, presents the scrolled theatre backdrop — a key signature in his films — as a kinetic outdoor installation. Meanwhile, Tanatchai Bandasak explores the connection between Singapore and Malaysia through objects.
The list of participating artists is available on the website. An admission ticket is required for entry to Singapore Art Museum at Tanjong Pagar Distripark. All other sites, located in publicly accessible spaces across the city, are free and open to all.