Gallery-hop through the 12 best art galleries in Singapore for a day of art-venture
The first time I wandered into an art gallery was half by accident because of the heat outside. But what started as a quick escape turned into a love affair with the city’s exciting art scene.
From hidden gems in shophouses to sleek contemporary spaces, there’s something here for every kind of art lover, whether you’re into avant-garde installations or classic masterpieces.
Let me take you on a whirlwind tour of the best art galleries in Singapore!
National Gallery Singapore
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Address: 1 St. Andrew’s Road
Contact: +6562717000
Hours: Daily, 10 AM–7 PM
Fees:
SG citizens and PRs: free entry; special exhibitions may have a fee
Non-residents: S$20 for adults and S$15 for seniors and students
The National Gallery Singapore is a treasure trove of Southeast Asian art, with two stunning historic buildings—the former Supreme Court and City Hall—housing this vast collection.
The exhibitions here are nothing short of captivating. I was entranced by the vibrant hues and bold brushstrokes in the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery, which showcases some of the region’s most iconic modern artists like Georgette Chen and Latiff Mohidin.
The gallery also offers a range of enriching programs—from guided tours and art workshops to film screenings and talks that bring the stories behind the art to life.
Pro-tip: Last admission and ticket sales are 30 minutes before closing.
STPI Creative Workshop and Gallery
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Address: 41 Robertson Quay
Contact: +6563363663
Hours:
Monday to Saturday, 10 AM–7 PM
Sunday, 11 AM–5 PM
Fees: Free entry; special exhibitions/workshops may have a fee
The STPI Creative Workshop and Gallery feels like a hidden playground for art lovers, buzzing with creativity and always offering something fresh—from bold contemporary prints to whimsical paper sculptures.
Regular exhibitions feature renowned artists like Rirkrit Tiravanija and Suzann Victor, pushing the boundaries of print and papermaking. I was especially captivated by the open workshop, where master printers and papermakers transform raw materials into stunning art right before your eyes.
Pro-tip: Try to visit STPI during one of the open house events or artist-in-residence programs to catch live demonstrations and interactive sessions.
REDSEA Gallery
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Address: Block 9 Dempsey Rd, Dempsey Hill
Contact: +6567326711
Hours: Daily, 10 AM–9 PM
Fees: Free entry
Nestled in the lush surroundings of Dempsey Hill, this gallery offers an eclectic mix of contemporary art from all over the world. For instance, the vibrant works of regional artists like Natee Utarit and Andre Mendes challenge conventions and capture a spectrum of emotions.
The gallery’s spacious, sunlit interiors make for a relaxed, unhurried exploration. It’s the perfect setting for soaking in the diverse range of paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works on display.
Pro-tip: REDSEA frequently hosts artist talks, wine and art nights, and special exhibitions that make art accessible and engaging for everyone.
YANG Gallery
— Media from yanggallery
Address: 581 Orchard Rd, Voco Orchard
Contact: +6583891888
Hours: Daily, 10 AM–7 PM
Fees: Free entry
From thought-provoking installations to striking abstract paintings, YANG Gallery offers a fascinating mix that keeps you on your toes. I lingered at the works of renowned artists like Yue Minjun and Wang Guangyi, whose unique styles bring a fresh perspective to modern art.
The gallery often hosts exclusive art events, cocktail nights, and private viewings, providing a lively platform for art enthusiasts to mingle and engage with artists. During my visit, I enjoyed a guided tour that added depth to the experience.
Pro-tip: YANG Gallery offers a selection of unique merchandise, including art books, limited-edition prints, collectables, and artist-designed accessories like tote bags, postcards, and home decor pieces.
Gajah Gallery
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Address: 39 Keppel Road
Contact: +6567374202
Hours:
Monday to Friday, 11 AM–7 PM
Saturday to Sunday, noon–6 PM
Fees: Free entry
Gajah Gallery immediately drew me in with its unique mix of Southeast Asian contemporary art, set against the industrial-chic backdrop of a converted warehouse.
As I wandered through the gallery, I was struck by the bold sculptures and textured paintings by artists like Yunizar and Suzann Victor, whose works explore themes of identity, culture, and history in deeply resonant ways.
The curated exhibitions often blur the lines between traditional and modern, offering fresh perspectives that kept me pondering long after I left.
Pro-tip: Gajah Gallery typically rotates its exhibitions every 6 to 8 weeks, so keep checking the website for new shows.
The Columns Gallery
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Address: 22 Lock Rd, Gillman Barracks
Contact: +65 9030 7647
Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM–7 PM
Sunday, noon–6 PM
Fees: Free entry
Specialising in contemporary Korean art, The Columns Gallery showcases an impressive roster of artists like Lee Bae and Kim Tschang-Yeul, whose works range from delicate monochromatic pieces to bold, textured canvases.
I loved the gallery’s selection of abstract paintings that seemed to capture emotion in every brushstroke. The intimate layout creates an atmosphere where you can really take your time to connect with each piece.
Pro-tip: Be sure to check the gallery’s schedule online or sign up for the mailing list to stay updated on special art events.
Whitestone Gallery
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Address: Keppel Rd, Tanjong Pagar Distripark
Contact: +6562233090
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM–7 PM
Fees: Free entry
What sets Whitestone Gallery apart for me is its ability to connect visitors with both established and emerging artists, offering a mix of established masters and fresh voices in the art world.
The gallery offers a refreshing range of pieces that span from delicate Nihonga paintings to edgy, avant-garde installations. The works of Yayoi Kusama, a perennial favourite, mesmerised me with dots and bold colours that seemed to pulse with energy right off the canvas.
Pro-tip: The gallery also hosts special events like artist meet-and-greets and exclusive previews.
ShanghART Singapore
— Media from shanghart.singapore
Address: 9 Lock Road
Contact: +6567349537
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, noon–6 PM
Fees: Free entry
It may be just one in a list of art galleries in Gillman Barracks, but stepping into ShanghART Singapore is akin to witnessing a bold, artistic conversation between China and Southeast Asia.
The gallery’s layout, with its open, airy spaces, gives each piece room to breathe, allowing visitors to engage with the art in a meaningful way. It’s the perfect backdrop to the striking pieces by Zeng Fanzhi and Ding Yi—artworks that balance the fine line between the familiar and the avant-garde.
Pro-tip: Artist talks here are often free and provide a unique opportunity to engage with the contemporary art scene firsthand.
Ames Yavuz
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Address: 9 Lock Road
Contact: +6567343262
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM–7 PM
Fees: Free entry
Yavuz Gallery is a space that isn’t afraid to confront the bold and the unconventional. Known for its focus on socio-political themes, the gallery showcases a diverse range of contemporary artworks from both Asian and international artists.
The exhibitions here aren’t just visually captivating; they challenge you to think deeply about the world around you, creating an experience that lingers long after you leave.
I was struck by the powerful pieces of Abdul Abdullah and Adeel uz Zafar, whose works offer a raw, unfiltered look at identity, conflict, and culture.
Pro-tip: If you’re not free during their regular operating hours, the gallery can be viewed by appointment on Mondays, Sundays, and public holidays.
Sundaram Tagore Gallery
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Address: 5 Lock Road
Contact: +6566943378
Hours:
Tuesday to Friday, 11 AM–6 PM
Saturday, 11 AM–7 PM
Fees: Free entry
I like that the art from East and West comes together in unexpected and beautiful ways at Sundaram Tagore Gallery. The gallery’s focus on art that bridges cultural divides creates a dialogue that feels both global and deeply personal.
The gallery is known for its diverse selection of contemporary works, featuring artists like Hiroshi Senju, whose ethereal waterfalls seem to flow right off the canvas, and Golnaz Fathi, who transforms traditional Persian calligraphy into mesmerising modern compositions.
Pro-tip: The gallery also provides art consulting, collection development, corporate collecting, curatorial, and public art services.
Yeo Workshop
— Media from yeoworkshop
Address: 47 Malan Road
Contact: +6567345168
Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM–7 PM
Sunday, noon–6 PM
Fees: Free entry
At Yeo Workshop, I felt the buzz of a space that thrives on experimentation and fresh ideas. The gallery’s thoughtfully curated exhibitions often push boundaries, inviting viewers to see the world through a different lens.
I was particularly drawn to the innovative works by artists like Maryanto and Shubigi Rao, whose pieces challenge conventional narratives and explore everything from environmental themes to cultural identity.
Pro-tip: Beyond the exhibitions, there’s a range of artist talks, workshops, and even a residency program that provides a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.
Civil Defence Heritage Gallery
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Address: 62 Hill Street
Contact: +6563322996
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM
Fees: Free entry
Housed in the iconic Central Fire Station, the gallery showcases a fascinating collection of vintage fire engines, old-school firefighting equipment, and interactive exhibits that bring the evolution of emergency services to life.
During my visit, I joined a guided tour led by a former firefighter who shared firsthand accounts that made the history feel even more real and personal.
I was especially intrigued by the “Great Fire of Bukit Ho Swee” exhibit, which told the gripping story of one of Singapore’s most devastating fires through photos, artefacts, and personal stories.
Pro-tip: There are hands-on displays where you can try on firefighter gear and virtual reality experiences simulating rescue missions.