'A more complex picture': Singapore marks 60th anniversary of independence from British rule with slew of cultural offerings

Singapore commemorates its 60th independence anniversary from British colonial rule on 9 August. The SG60 celebrations feature economic incentives, community outreach programmes, and an annual parade. Key events include the launch of the SG60 art exhibition, Singapore Stories: Pathways and Detours in Art, showcasing over 400 works from the 19th century to the present. The National Gallery Singapore, which houses this exhibition, aims to provide a more diverse representation of Singapore's art history, reducing the focus on colonial imagery and including a variety of artistic voices and practices in their displays.

"We reduced the exhibition footprint given over to British colonial imagery related to coastal and topographical surveys, which was part of the first iteration of the permanent gallery."

"The Esplanade from Scandal Point (1951) by John Turnbull Thomson was placed as the first work in Singapore Stories to provide a more complex picture of Singapore."

"We endeavoured to include a diversity of voices and practices, such as lesser-known names and works alongside practices by major artists."

"SG60 includes nation-wide economic incentives, community outreach programmes, and an annual parade, celebrating Singapore's 60th independence anniversary from British colonial rule."

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