Mingli Seet

It's no surprise that Singapore is a shopping paradise with a plethora of malls, multi-concept stores and independent labels in every nook and cranny. But if you prefer rifling through pre-loved gems and scoring statement pieces at affordable prices, then thrift your weekend away at these secondhand shops. RECOMMENDED: Six cool indie stores in Singapore and 10 places to shop on a budget in Singapore  

Halfway across the globe, Singapore is probably largely known for landmarks like the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands. And according to printmaker and artist John Mathis, better known as Tatsu Maker, the probability of encountering a Singaporean in the quieter parts of America is probably close to zero. Reason being that “there's just not enough Singaporeans to go around,” he says jokingly. This is one of the reasons that fuel John’s artistic practice to focus his art on showcasing the true essence of Singapore – our food culture. His aim is to ensure that every visitor to our small, sunny island can take a slice of it back home and share their experience with others. “I'm a printmaker,” John says, “and through my art, I try to tell the stories of Singapore.”   Photograph: Daniel Iskandar/Time OutArtist John colouring a print John Mathis is an American printmaker that moved to Singapore 15 years ago. He specialises in linocut printing – an interesting printmaking technique first used in the mid-1800s. To create a print, a design is first carved into the surface of a block of linoleum, and ink is then applied to the raised areas of the block and transferred onto paper or another material by pressing it against the block.      Photograph: Tatsu Maker WorksCarving a plate with a host of knives of various sizes and shapes, under a magnifying glass The beginning of his artistic practice was a simple one – six years ago, on a seemingly ordinary day, he gathered a few knives, inks,

We believe that art – whether it's through paintings, sculptures, music, or dance – brings a much needed sense of wonder and excitement to our everyday lives. It allows us to escape from the mundane, explore new possibilities, and liberates us to express ourselves however we want to.  Lucky for us, Singapore may be small in size but it certainly doesn't fall short when it comes to its abundance of exciting activities and vibrant art spaces. From captivating art exhibitions and mesmerising performances to immersive cultural events, there is no shortage of exciting artistic endeavours to explore and enjoy. So, waste no more time searching and skip to the good part with our compiled list of the must-see art exhibitions this season. We've gone all out to cover a diverse range of art experiences – from historical, contemporary, mixed media, traditional mediums, and even virtual experiences. Now what’s left is to read on and get out there.  RECOMMENDED: The best contemporary art galleries and spaces in Singapore and the best museums in Singapore

In addition to the fantastic art exhibitions in Singapore, theatre and dance performances offer an excellent alternative to unwind from the grind and broaden your horizons. In the months ahead, look forward to a packed calendar of award-winning Broadway musicals, timeless ballets, and laugh-out-loud physical comedy shows. These delve into diverse topics – the stresses that arise from Singapore’s education system, tragic romances, and our obsession with screens. Just sink into a plush seat and prepare to be captivated by these spectacular performances. RECOMMENDED: 10 brilliant music festivals in Asia you don’t want to miss and The best new movies in Singapore to catch

Are art exhibitions and galleries ever enough? The answer is no. From one art type to another, we’ve rounded the best art trails to peep the city’s street art and learn more about our island's heritage, ranging from 2D murals to 3D sculptures, as well as art installations. RECOMMENDED: Must-see art exhibitions in Singapore and the best museums in Singapore

Next in line to grace the stage at the National Stadium Singapore is none other than the award-winning American singer, Bruno Mars. It has been six long years since his last show in 2018, and the excitement among Hooligans (Mars' fandom name) who have secured tickets to his April 2024 shows is undoubtedly skyrocketing. To make your lives easier, we’re back again with an all-you-need-to-know concert guide that will cover everything to ensure you’re well-prepared before the big show – from the setlist, timings, merchandise booths, prohibited items at the venue, and more.  RECOMMENDED: American pop singer Lauv will perform at LIV Golf Singapore in May and Swee Lee Clarke Quay is a vibrant experience store with vinyl listening stations, bespoke services, café and bar When is Bruno Mars performing in Singapore in 2024? Bruno Mars will play three shows on April 3, 5, and 6, 2024. Are there still tickets? Yes! For the shows happening on April 3 and 5, there are still tickets available for purchase here at time of writing. You can also try here if tickets sell out. What time will the doors open? The doors will open at 6.30pm. However, we recommend arriving slightly earlier as queuing up for security checks may take some time. What time does Bruno Mars start? There will be no opening act for Mars’ show. The concert is set to start at 8pm. How long will the show last? The show will last around two hours, so you can expect it to end at around 10pm. What is the setlist for Bruno Mars' co

There's a time for trekking and conquering nature trails but there's also a time for sitting pretty and having a picnic – especially now that beaches are open once again. Forget fighting for a table in a hip cafe in the city too. When the weather's looking fine, it's time to pack some bites and look for a spot in one of the best parks in Singapore.  If you're not in the mood to put together a take-out feast, grab a gourmet picnic basket that comes pre-packed with all the tasty finger food you need. All you have to do is to place an order, swing by to collect and be on your way. We've rounded up some places that don't require you to travel to the middle of nowhere, have some shade, and most importantly, located near the toilets (but not too near). RECOMMENDED: The best places to fly a kite and best nature trails in Singapore

Singapore's nightscape is filled with an endless array of bars, cafés and restaurants ready with headbangin' tunes and heart-rending sets. Whether it's soulful jazz or powerful rock hits, here are our favourite live venues to keep tabs on. Get ready to clear your evenings.  RECOMMENDED Upcoming DJ sets and club parties in Singapore and upcoming concerts in Singapore

Yearly, several prominent music festivals light up Asia's calendar. Don't hesitate – catch that flight, as there's nothing quite like joining a pulsating crowd of fellow revelers, dancing and shouting your heart out to the tunes you love alongside beloved international artists. RECOMMENDED: The best nightclubs in Singapore and The best music concerts and festivals in Singapore

Feast, shop, sightsee, enjoy live music, get a tattoo – there’s lots to do from day to night in the vibrant district of Kampong Gelam. But did you know that this must-visit destination was once a port town and trading post where goods like spices, aromatic wood and batik were brought in by traders from neighbouring countries? And this is just the tip of the iceberg. As a Singaporean myself that has frequented the area countless times, I’m curious to dive deeper into the stories that go beyond the surface of these touristy streets.    Photograph: OH! Open HouseOH! Open House Kampong Gelam Art Walk Oh! Open House’s latestKampong Gelam art walk allowed me to do just that. The journey begins at Aliwal Arts Centre, and takes you through 12 site-specific art installations that will unravel Kampong Gelam’s history. Interestingly, the programming of this art walk actually started out by pairing artists and Kampong Gelam occupants such as store owners and residents, together. This is so the artists can take in the nuances of this environment before developing their proposals.   Without further ado, here are four lesser known facts I’ve learnt about Kampong Gelam. And rest assured, this is just a fraction of what’s awaiting your discovery. RECOMMENDED: The best historical trails in Singapore and The best public art trails in Singapore 1. The actual name of the Malay Heritage Centre is ‘Istana’, and it was once a home for Malay royalty.    Photograph: Visit Kampong GelamIstana Kampon

These days, cafes aren’t just about freshly brewed coffee. Some are sharing their digs with gyms and sports hubs, while others are doubling their corners as a record store, art gallery and event space – all for an innovative all-in-one experience, which we're sold. For some coffee and culture, we’ve mapped out the best lifestyle cafes with specially curated art showcases, retail spaces, music paraphernalia, and even art jamming sessions. RECOMMENDED: The best lifestyle cafes for sports and fitness enthusiasts and the best cafes in Singapore

Japan is known for many things – its stunning natural sights, vibrant arts scene, mouth-watering food, and most will agree, its extensive array of snacks. From unique KitKat flavours to moist and fluffy castella cakes and savoury monaka, there is plenty to discover and try. Whether you’re an avid snacker or simply looking for unique souvenirs to bring home for your loved ones, here are some must-try snacks when you visit the Land of the Rising Sun.   RECOMMENDED: The best old-school childhood snacks from Singapore and Kyoto Guide: Best things to do, eat and stay

In modern times, gift wrappers are used to present gifts and then conveniently disposed of right after serving their purpose. This is a stark contrast to what the Japanese practised from the 18th to the early 20th century, where beautifully embroidered luxurious Japanese silk gift covers called fukusa were used in the act of gifting. In fact, this practice of gift presentation was such an important aspect of gift giving that a gift will only be considered “successful” if the recipient was able to comprehend and decipher the meaning behind the fukusa design. This meant recognising the symbolic motifs and pictorial allusions that are intricately sewn into the silk. Photograph: Asian Civilisations Museum Encountering a fukusa in person these days is probably quite a rare occurrence due to their infrequent use. However, the upcoming show, Fukusa, Japanese Gift Covers from the Chris Hall Collection, by the Asian civilizations and Museum (ACM) and Peranakan Museum will present us a chance to come up close and personal with these cherished gems. The exhibition gathers over 80 fukusa, kimonos, and related textiles from renowned collector Chris Hall, who holds one of the most valuable collections of Asian textiles in the world.  The entire show is segmented into different categories to show what sort of fukusa are being used in different occasions and ceremonies. Through these incredible works of art, we’ll be able to uncover varied ways of life that completely differ from ours, a

If you’re looking to party but can’t stay up till the wee hours, then this one’s for you. Veteran club promoters Kampong Boogie and Kult Yard have joined forces to present ‘Kampong Kids’ – a daytime rave perfect for families and furry friends alike, happening on Labour Day, from 3pm to 10pm. And best of all, entry is absolutely free. The lineup boasts an impressive array of DJs, including the vinyl-exclusive duo HeavyItch, spinning nostalgic funk and soul, alongside the eclectic sounds of Filipino Singaporean collective Secret Pals, and local favourites like DJ KFC, Drem from Choice Cuts, and Prau, serving up a vibrant mix of house, hip-hop, and disco beats.  Nestled in a former police barracks in Chinatown, the venue will be transformed into a tropical rainforest wonderland, inviting kids to come dressed as their favourite Southeast Asian animals. There will be face painting, balloon sculptures, bubbles, and the nostalgic delights of an old-school ‘potong’ ice cream vendor. There will also be a taco stand and ‘Kult Tails’ mocktails for the little ones, while adults can indulge in craft beer and locally-inspired cocktails from the fully licensed bar.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kampong Boogie (@kampongboogie)

Get acquainted with French arts and culture right here in Asia at the vOilah! France Singapore Festival, returning from April 25 to May 26, 2024. Once again, the festival will bridge France and Singapore through a programme line-up of audiovisual arts, performing arts, visual arts, lifestyle, sports, science, gastronomy and music. This year’s edition undertakes the theme ‘Celebrating Passions’, and is supported by more than 50 local and international partners.  Enjoy a readapted 360-year-old play created by French playwright Molière titled Tartuffe: The Imposter, staged by Wild Rice. The festival will also celebrate the iconic tale The Little Prince by French author Antoine de Saint Exupéry, with the exhibition Saint Exupéry: A Legacy which retraces his journey, with original artefacts, screenings, readings, and conferences. Photograph: vOilah! France Singapore Festival 2024Antoine de Saint Exupéry Other highlights include Piaf! The Show, a musical tribute to Edith Piaf, the French musical icon of the 1940s, well known for her trademark song La vie en Rose. The musical honours the legacy and musical contributions of the iconic French singer, drawing inspiration from the Academy Award-winning film La Vie En Rose and Marion Cotillard's captivating depiction of Edith. Photograph: Photograph: vOilah! France Singapore Festival 2024Piaf! The Show For the full list of programmes, visit their webpage here.

Discover the artistry of Leo Hee Tong, a renowned Singaporean painter, through NAFA’s upcoming exhibition Memories of Time: Leo Hee Tong 时光印迹： 梁其栋. Featuring around 50 paintings spanning his early and recent career, the showcase will take place at The Ngee Ann Kongsi Galleries from April 16 to 28, 2024.  Explore Leo's life, memories, and imagination through his artwork, offering a glimpse into his journey as an artist. This exhibition marks Leo's sixth solo show in the last decade and holds significance as his first at his alma mater. Leo's artistic roots trace back to his time at NAFA, where he studied under the mentorship of Cheong Soo Pieng, a pioneer artist. Later, Leo expanded his artistic horizons at Ashiya Art College in Japan, where he encountered diverse artistic influences.    

Explore the creations of Yanyun Chen, Hong Zhu An, and Prabhavathi Meppayil, produced during their artists’ residency as they venture beyond their typical practices to experiment with various print and paper mediums. At STPI’s Creative Workshop, these artists engaged with unfamiliar materials, techniques, and collaborators. The exhibition showcases the outcomes of their projects, highlighting the artistic breakthroughs that occur during the enriching period of an STPI residency.

From April 12 to May 31, 2024, A Trail to Chase will feature 29 multidisciplinary functional art – think everyday furnitures with a twist – created by renowned artists like Fernando Mastrangelo, Charlotte Kingsnorth, and Vincent Pocsik. Visitors are invited to go on an introspective journey to uncover narratives and contemplate the interconnectedness of our world through extraordinary creations. As you traverse the gallery space, explore the beauty of shifted perspectives, where nature's allure meets modern innovation, while tracing the invisible routes of art's journey, uncovering stories of cultural heritage and art.

If you’ve seen the widely-discussed artwork featuring a banana taped to a wall that sold for over a hundred thousand dollars, then you would know that there are no boundaries in modern art. This inevitably leads us to the pressing question: What exactly is art? With this question in mind, take a trip to the National Gallery’s latest show, Figuring A Scene. The exhibition is divided into six segments: ‘Shadow’, 'Fruit’, ‘Fire’, ‘Air’, ‘Wax’ and ‘City’. These different points of focus hope to further aid our understanding of the displayed works beyond its historical or societal contexts.  For example, in the segment ‘Fruit’, the show examines the diverse portrayals of the King of Fruits, Durian, throughout several mediums of art – from sculptures to paintings and photographs. With each medium offering its own unique point of view, visitors can reflect on its status during colonial times and uncover how this fruit has evolved into an iconic symbol of Singapore's national identity. For more information, visit their website here.Download the e-catalogue here.

Art – the big A word that is often associated with the white cube. In other words, art is commonly presented in white cube-like spaces, hung on walls for the world to see. However in recent times, technology has taken the front seat in our daily lives whether we like it or not, and with that, art now embraces various mediums, methods of execution, and styles of presentation. If you would like to find out more about what this means exactly, then pay a visit to National Arts Centre’s latest collaboration with Esplanade: Performing Arts x Tech Lab. Here, six teams of art practitioners and technologists shake hands to collaborate on projects that will explore the marrying of technology and performing arts such as theatre, dance, and music.   You’ll be able to experience firsthand the team’s prototypes at this exhibition, with guidance from industry experts. Uncover interesting inventions such as Verge 2.0 – one where dancers are given control to manipulate sounds, light and visuals themselves through technology, and The Sound of Stories, a project using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the act of storytelling performances. All these innovations increase the accessibility of arts experiences, bringing audiences from all walks of life together. There’ll also be a lineup of guided tours, prototype demonstrations, playtests and sharing sessions where you can learn more from the project teams about the motivation behind their invention and the different technologies explored su

Telok Ayer has a new chocolate factory, and it’s one without Charlie. We’re talking about Any1 Choco – a Japanese chocolate brand bringing to us satisfying plant-based milk and dark chocolates.  As the name speaks for itself, anyone can indulge in Any1 Choco. That’s because all of their chocolate products are entirely plant-based, dairy-free and gluten-free, crafted with hand-picked ingredients by their in-house Japanese chef.   Photograph: Mingli Seet The menu covers two main categories: chocolate ice cream (Choco Ice) and chocolate drinks (Choco Drink). It doesn’t sound like anything too fancy at first, but under those categories entail a wide range of interesting flavour options.  Photograph: Mingli SeetPlant Based White Coconut For the most part, when we think of chocolate ice cream, a thick and dense consistency comes to mind. Here’s your cue to throw that notion away and have a taste of Any1 Choco’s light yet rich version. Choose from four flavours: Plant Based Milk Coconut, Plant Based White Coconut, Plant Based Dark Vietnam Cacao, and Plant Based Milk Blend Cacao. Those that enjoy sour flavours, give the Plant Based Dark Vietnam Cacao a go, made using Vietnamese cacao dark chocolate. And for the ones that are into coconut, we recommend ordering the Plant Based White Coconut, made using white chocolate and enriched coconut undertones. All ice cream is priced at $6.80 for a single scoop and $9.80 for a double.  Photograph: Mingli SeetIced Plant Based Milk Roaste

Known as one of the world's longest-running anime series and boasting a fanbase potentially larger than that of Singapore is the beloved One Piece, and this 2024 marks its 25th anniversary. One Piece fans have seen how the anime has evolved since its founding years in 1999. And for those that aren’t quite sure what we're talking about, one google search will reveal the stark difference in the drawing style of protagonist Luffy in the past and present.  To commemorate this milestone, the talented musicians from the orchestra company The Wild Faery will be putting on a live orchestral performance featuring some of the anime's most iconic tracks, such as We Are!, Sai sai saikyo!!!, Oitsumerareta, and Binks no Sake. This is part of their One Piece Music Symphony World Tour, where they will be pit-stopping in other cities like Seoul, Los Angeles, Melbourne, Berlin, Jakarta, and Paris. The performance will also be accompanied by a giant screen projection showcasing snippets of the Straw Hat Crew’s adventures. This interesting touch is unique to this orchestra company. Other concerts they have done include soundtracks from big-name movies such as Final Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts, Harry Potter and Pirates of the Caribbean. Secure your tickets here.

Get all your questions about Singapore’s maritime industry answered at the 18th edition of Singapore Maritime Week (SMW), brought to you by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). This year’s lineup features a series of exciting tours catered to people of all ages, including those that will take participants on voyages to offshore islands. Starting off with three free events happening on land – get acquainted with new maritime technologies and dive deeper into the invisible relationship between maritime and our daily lives at the Singapore Maritime Gallery Tour. Step into the shoes of our early seafarers and traders to uncover our country’s maritime history by going on the Maritime Heritage Trail that will take you through the historic Fort Canning Park, Singapore River and Clifford Pier. Lastly, explore our dynamic Keppel Harbour and the St. James Power Station on the Maritime Evolution Trail and learn about how Singapore has built our very own port infrastructure. Take it one step further and venture beyond our shores on the Sea Exploration Tour. Participants will be able to sail out into the open waters of Singapore Strait to observe the activities happening in the harbour firsthand and explore offshore islands that play a part in our maritime trade. On the Raffles Lighthouse Tour, depart to the Raffles Lighthouse to learn more about this structure, as well as visit its heritage gallery. These offshore activities are ticketed and tickets can be purchased by cli

Explore a curated selection of 30 paintings by artist Cheong Soo Pieng, completed from the 1950s to the 1980s. Visitors can venture through the space segmented into three sections that will answer the following questions: “What makes a painting?”, “When is a painting complete?”, and “What is painting?”. This exhibition is a special one as it is the first in Southeast Asia to utilise material analysis such as x-ray scans and infrared photography to unveil fresh insights into Cheong’s artistic processes. Visitors will be able to dive into Cheong Soo Pieng’s art journey and learn more about the ins and outs of his practice such as materials used, art approaches, and untold stories and ideas.

It’s almost that time of the year again where the prices of flowers are marked up to welcome Mothers’ Day. While flowers are undeniably beautiful, the bittersweet reality is their fleeting lifespan. But what if we told you that out there exists a bouquet of sorts that will serve more than just sitting pretty, but fill your tummies as well? It may sound improbable, but local company Bewilder has made this a reality with their newly-released limited edition 'Bloom of Love' gourmet mushroom bouquet. Bewilder is a local company that specialises in all things fungi. They cultivate mushrooms, both dried and fresh, for both culinary and medicinal purposes. This includes grow kits, workshops, and educational resources for all to learn more about these interesting organisms. Besides mushroom bouquets, they also design mushroom jewelry, and designer mycelium products.  “This Mother’s Day, we re-imagine the traditional floral bouquet into one that spotlights the intersection of art and food – featuring a medley of vibrant mushrooms that doubles as a culinary delight," said Kimberly Wee, Bewilder’s Mycological Designer. Each vibrant bouquet of mushies will feature a bundle of pink, blue and golden oyster mushrooms, put together by hand to flaunt the different textures these natural beauties have to offer. After the mushrooms are admired, they also offer intricate flavours for a good feast. To add, the fact that these bouquets will be eventually consumed as food is Bewilder’s way of showi

Lau Pa Sat truly lives up to the ‘lau’ (old in Mandarin) in its name as it celebrates its 130th year anniversary today. Celebrating this milestone is the unveiling of a new 10-metre mural by local mural artist and painter Yip Yew Chong, as well as a range of merchandise by local illustrator Ah Guo featuring notebooks, folders, and more. The iconic hawker centre has also launched a newly-designed logo paying homage to its rich heritage.   Photograph: Li Qin Lau/Time Out SingaporeYip Yew Chong (left) Ah Guo (right) This hawker centre’s facade is quite a special one – featuring well-preserved Victorian cast iron columns, ornate leaves, and an interesting octagonal layout, it is no doubt one of the most aesthetically-pleasing hawker centres in Singapore. In recent years, Lau Pa Sat has also taken an extra step to support local businesses, as well as our local arts community. Visitors will be able to find over 100 local brands at Food Folks and frequent collaborations between Lau Pa Sat with local artists and musicians.    Photograph: Lau Pa Sat'From Shoreline to Skyline' by Yip Yew Chong Yip Yew Chong’s striking mural took him six full work days to finish. The local artist is best known for his murals scattered across the island, and has painted 80 murals to date. However, this mural is a special one as he mentioned this would most probably be his last one in a long time, as he focuses on transitioning his artform to canvas paintings instead.   The mural is located at the ext

Here’s an epic way to beat Singapore’s heat – prepare to get wet as one of South Korea’s most famous summer music festivals, the Waterbomb Festival, will take place in Singapore this August 24 and 25. This exciting splash fest celebrates all things Korean, from its culture to K-pop music and delicious food. And Singapore will not be its only pit stop in Southeast Asia – it will also make its way to Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh.   Photograph: Waterbomb Festival/FacebookWaterbomb Festival 2019 The Waterbomb Festival has been running annually since 2015. As its name suggests, there will be lots of water activities alongside banging K-pop, K-hip-hop and EDM acts. This includes both South Korean musicians, as well as local ones. While the lineup for Singapore hasn't been disclosed yet, Seoul’s version boasts superstars like Taemin, Jay Park, Hwasa, Chung Ha, and Bibi. Here's hoping ours will be just as epic.     Photograph: Waterbomb Festival/FacebookWaterbomb Festival 2018 Other happenings include photobooths, water gun fights and water cannons during performances.   Tickets will be sold from May 2 onwards for UOB cardholders, and May 3 for the general public. Prices have yet to be released, so stay tuned for more information.   MORE NEWS Decommissioned SMRT train carriage is being transformed into Singapore’s first ever co-living train hotelSwee Lee Clarke Quay is a vibrant experience store with vinyl listening stations, bespoke services, café and barRenowned Brazilian DJ Alok wi

Concluding the final day of 2024’s LIV Golf is Brazilian DJ Alok, set to perform at Sentosa’s Palawan Beach, on May 5, 2024, from 6pm.  DJ Alok is a renowned Brazilian EDM sensation whose infectious beats and dynamic performances have propelled him to international acclaim. With hits like Hear Me Now, featuring Zeeba, he has amassed millions of fans worldwide with over 31 million monthly listeners and 6 billion streams on Spotify. Alok's achievements include headlining major festivals, winning accolades like the DJ Awards for Best DJ in Brazil, and consistently ranking high in DJ Mag's Top 100 DJs list. He is also the most listened-to Brazilian artist internationally.  Tickets will be available from April 9 at 10am via Ticketmaster. Early bird price is available from April 9, 10am to April 12, 11.59pm at $95. And students, simply flash your student pass and you’ll be entitled to a 10% discount. Do note that fans who hold tickets to the golf tournament will still need to purchase separate tickets to Alok.   MORE NEWS Decommissioned SMRT train carriage is being transformed into Singapore’s first ever co-living train hotel Teddy Swims is set to perform in Singapore this July, as part of his 2024 Asia Tour Frida Kahlo exhibition ‘Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon’ is coming to Singapore this May

In Singapore's vibrant art scene, we've been treated to a series of exhibitions that allowed us to step into the worlds of artistic giants, from the wildly successful Van Gogh show to the upcoming Claude Monet showcase. Now, stepping into the limelight alongside these luminaries is none other than the influential Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo. Brace yourselves for Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon, an exhibition that will be brought to us by the ArtScience Museum this May, promising to transport us into her singular universe. Photographer: A EstradaFrida Kahlo and Dr. Juan Farill with her Self-Portrait © Gisele Freund, IMEC, fonds MCC Frida Kahlo is an influential Mexican artist known for her emotionally charged self-portraits, exploring themes of identity, pain, and feminism. Her unique style combines surrealism with traditional Mexican folk art. Kahlo's life was marked by physical and emotional struggles, which often informed her work. Till today, she remains a symbol of resilience and artistic expression worldwide. Photograph: Layers of RealityExhibition view of Immersive Biography at IDEAL Centre D’Arts Digitals, Barcelona, 2022. Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon prides itself on being an immersive one like no other, featuring three different segments with nine spaces filled with 360-degree projections, interactive installations, photographs, and films. You’ll be able to trace her artistic journey, starting from her early years as a young girl. The show will also touch o

Ever wondered where old SMRT trains go when replaced with newer ones? Well, it seems like one of them will be transformed into a boutique co-living hotel. With the support of JTC, local startup company Tiny Pod will be launching Singapore’s first ever co-living train hotel, featuring the reuse of a decommissioned SMRT train carriage. This is part of their pop-up shipping container initiation, LaunchPad @ one-north, which was launched in 2020. They also have other containers up for rent at spaces like Gardens by the Bay and Haw Par Villa. “By transforming underutilised spaces into unique accommodation experiences, we unlock new revenue streams and minimise our environmental footprint,” says Tiny Pod Pte Ltd Founder & CEO, Mr. Seah Liang Chiang. This train hotel will have eight rooms, and each of them comes with an attached bathroom. One interesting feature is the LCD panels that will be mounted inside the driver’s compartment showing real-life footage of the train’s earlier journey through the tunnel, creating quite a surreal experience for the guests. As for its location, it will be located next to block 69 Ayer Rajah Crescent where there will be a recreational green space integrated with food and beverage vending machines and bicycle racks, as well as repurposed train chairs redesigned as outdoor public benches.    The hotel is currently in the works, and is predicted to open to the public in September 2024. Stay tuned for more information and additional photos.   MORE NEWS

American singer-songwriter Teddy Swims is set to perform at the Capitol Theatre on July 23, 2024, together with his band Freak Freely. This is part of his Teddy Swims: I've Tried Everything But Therapy Tour, which will start in Singapore and move to Manila.  One of Teddy's most remarkable achievements lies in his meteoric rise from YouTube covers to a global sensation. His covers of popular songs have garnered millions of views, and his tracks have accumulated a whopping 2.7 billion streams worldwide. Hits like Broke, I Can't Make You Love Me, and Picky showcase his ability to infuse each note with raw emotion, as well effortlessly blending the different genres of R&B, soul, country, and pop. The song Lose Control  also came up #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #4 on the Billboard Global 200. Ticket presale for Live Nation members will commence on April 16 from noon to 11.59pm via Live Nation. Public sales will start from April 17 from noon via Ticketmaster. Tickets are priced from $78 to $108.   MORE NEWS Frida Kahlo exhibition ‘Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon’ is coming to Singapore this May This ‘Hamilton Ticket Lottery’ lets you purchase tickets to the Broadway musical at only $28 Smoke & Mirrors comes in second among the best rooftop bars in the world  

Not too long ago, the Broadway musical Hamilton announced its upcoming debut in Singapore this April 2024. And it is no surprise that tickets have been selling out fast since its release. However, here’s some good news for those that are still on the fence about whether to purchase tickets – the Hamilton Ticket Lottery, known as Ham4Ham, will run exclusively in Singapore. To break it down, the lottery is a giveaway of sorts where a limited number of tickets available throughout the season will be up for purchase at an attractive price of $56 for a pair of tickets – a total steal. “It’s important that theatre is accessible for anyone who wants to see it and the digital ticket lottery allows us to introduce this transformative experience to people who may not have been able to see it otherwise,” says producer Michael Cassel. The first round of the lottery will open for entries on April 10, 2024, from 10am to 11.59pm, for tickets to the shows in the week of April 19 to 21, 2024. The subsequent rounds of ticket lotteries will continue in a similar fashion – with entries beginning on each Wednesday for the upcoming week’s performances. Here’s how to enter: First, sign up here to receive entry access to the Hamilton Ticket Lottery. A one-entry-per-week limit applies to all participants. Winners will be notified by Sistic every Thursday, 12pm Singapore time, via email. Open the email for a one-time-use promo code and a purchase link that will expire at 12pm the following day (Friday

Among the numerous districts in Singapore boasting rich histories, Changi indisputably makes the list and stands out as one of the places with the deepest roots. While known today for its seaside charm, yummy food hideouts, and the award winning Changi Airport, this locale harbours a wealth of historical narratives often overlooked by many. Photograph: National Heritage BoardChangi Point Ferry Terminal, 2024 The newly-launched Changi Heritage Trail by National Heritage Board (NHB) will explore just that. Casting a fresh perspective on the Changi district, this journey unveils its cultural, social, economic, and military heritage from hundreds of years ago. Photograph: National Museum of SingaporeJetty at Changi Point, 1958 Uncover the district’s story through 23 heritage sites and six heritage trail markers where trail-goers will get to explore iconic landmarks and listen to stories from the community – from the hardships endured by prisoners of war during the Japanese Occupation, to the cultures of the kampongs in the area. Read on to discover some facts that you’ll get to learn more about on this Changi Heritage Trail. 1. Maritime activities shaped the economy, society and cultures of Changi’s kampongs. Photograph: Edward William Newell Collection, courtesy of National Archives of SingaporeMalay villagers in Changi, 1909 Ayer Gemuroh, Mata Ikan and Beting Kusah are some of the kampongs that existed in Changi. Photograph: National Museum of SingaporeFisherman off

Lauv is set to conclude day two of the returning golf event, LIV Golf Singapore, on May 4. The concert will take place from 7.30pm at Palawan Green along Palawan Beach, a stone’s throw from Sentosa Golf Club. The American pop singer-songwriter has swiftly risen to prominence with several viral hits including his breakout track I Like Me Better, that garnered over one billion global streams on Spotify and culminated in nominations at prestigious award ceremonies like the MTV Video Music Awards. With his debut studio album How I'm Feeling, featuring collaborations with big names such as Troye Sivan, Anne-Marie, and BTS, Lauv solidified his status as a formidable force in the music industry.  Tickets for Lauv start at $138 and will be available for purchase from March 28, 10am via Ticketmaster. Do note that fans who have secured tickets to the golf tournament will still be required to purchase separate tickets to Lauv.   MORE EXCITING NEWS J-pop group Atarashii Gakko! will be performing in Singapore this June Universal Studios Singapore will be featuring a Naruto exhibition from next week onwards ‘Night At Orchard’ returns after four-year hiatus with 10 monthly themed events held across 2024

The moment the entire Southeast Asia has been waiting for has finally arrived, concluding its Day One last night. Yes, we are referring to Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour at the National Stadium. Photograph: TAS Rights Management Distinguishing itself from other concerts, this event featured a pre-party unfolding just outside Kallang Wave Mall hours before the pop queen graced the stage. Swifties were adorned in their preferred eras, making it effortless to identify one's tribe in the crowd. Adding to the camaraderie, fans engaged in the Swift-exclusive tradition of exchanging friendship bracelets just moments before the concert kicked off. This heartfelt gesture proved to be a unifying force, bringing together fans from diverse backgrounds for a shared and meaningful experience. Approaching 7 o'clock, a countdown clock illuminated the screen, building anticipation for Taylor Swift's imminent appearance. In a departure from traditional concerts, she spared the audience the typical waiting time and got straight down to business. And of course, her entrance was nothing short of a grand one – amazing costumes were adorned by her stage performers and the crowd cheered so loudly I could barely hear Taylor’s voice despite being seated quite near the speakers. Photograph: TAS Rights Management The pop queen dove straight into the Lover era, launching the concert with the captivating Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince. This was just the beginning, as she continued to mesmerise t

Seven MRT stations will be added along Singapore's newest Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) from June 23, 2024, as part of the completion of Stage 4 of the TEL. The stations are: Tanjong Rhu, Katong Park, Tanjong Katong, Marine Parade, Marine Terrace, Siglap and Bayshore. These new stations will significantly reduce travel time for commuters, as many of them are strategically located with minimal walking distance to residential estates. By 2026, the Thomson-East Coast Line is set to have additional stations, including Bedok South, Sungei Bedok interchange, and Xilin. This signifies the conclusion of Stage 5 in both the TEL and the DTL extension projects. And for anyone that’s interested to get a sneak peek before its official launch, exciting news – you can travel for free along these seven stations during the opening event on June 21, from 10am to 9pm. More details will be released on Land Transport Authority’s (LTA) Facebook page so stay tuned.  MORE NEWS Sentosa Sensoryscape to open on March 14 with six sensory gardens and immersive night experience K-Pop boy group NCT Dream will perform in Singapore for two nights this June The Feather Blade will be serving $5 steaks on March 18