Thu, Sep 07, 2006 - Page 15 News List

Singapore Biennale puts the city state on the arts map

The city's first biennale includes work from 95 artists and despite Singapore's reputation for being strict, some of the art on display tests boundaries

By Susan Kendzulak  /  CONTRIBUTING REPORTER

Besides the inclusion of well-known international artists, the exhibition showcases the work of artists from underexposed areas of Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East that are not normally represented in biennales. One outstanding work is by New Delhi-based Sheba Chhachhi. Music, scrolling Asiatic images and kimono-like sculptures create a moving, complex environment based on the theme of birds, freedom, disease and globalization. Taipei-based artist Kuo I-chen (郭奕臣) is exhibiting his Lost Contact, which can also be seen at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum.

Word on the street is that the local audience is hungrily receptive for such an exhibition. A museum worker stated that she's excited to learn about these forms of expression that are new to Singaporean audiences. A young local film student remarked on how already the ideas put forth in the Biennale are inspiring him and his friends. Nanjo said: “The Singapore Biennale is for the people of Singapore,” and it looks like he succeeded.

Information:

What: Singapore Biennale
Where: Visit www.singaporebiennale.org for a list of locations and further information
When: Through Nov 12

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