Gallery Benefit 2023, the biennial fundraising initiative of the National Gallery Singapore aimed at advancing the museum's mission to cultivate and stimulate a reflective, imaginative, and groundbreaking society through the medium of art, is scheduled to make its return on Nov. 17, 2023.
Over 300 attendees, many of whom are from the region, will converge at the Gallery for an evening of art appreciation and sparkling conversation. Patrons will partake in a charity dinner and fundraising auction before adjourning to Gallery Underground, the Gallery’s first-ever party.
This year’s Benefit is inspired by the Gallery’s latest special exhibition, "Tropical: Stories from Southeast Asia and Latin America." "Tropical" is the first large-scale museum exhibition to take a comparative approach across Southeast Asia and Latin America, featuring 200 artworks from 70 renowned artists, including Frida Kahlo, David Medalla, Patrick Ng, and Paul Gauguin.
An array of artworks and experiences by leading artists from 18 countries, including Haffendi Anuar (Malaysia), Antony Gormley (Britain), Yayoi Kusama (Japan), Jane Lee (Singapore), Jet Leyco (Philippines), and Arin Dwihartanto Sunaryo (Indonesia), has been donated for the Benefit's auction.
During the evening, a selection will be auctioned live, with the remaining artworks and experiences available online on Phillips from Nov. 10 to 18 (1:00 a.m, UTC+08:00).
Funds raised from the Benefit will help ensure that the Gallery continues to stage exhibitions of international repute and allows a broader audience to experience the transformative power of art.
As a gesture of appreciation to the artistic community, a portion of the proceeds will be directed back to the artists to support their practice
To cultivate a broad demographic to begin their giving journey, Gallery Underground will be extended to guests who wish to experience a high energy night at the museum with performances by guest DJs from Soho House and Zouk.
Attendees will enjoy exclusive access to the Tropical exhibition, complimentary cocktails and stand a chance to win a rare wrapping cloth by celebrated artist, Kusama, valued at S$2,000. Tickets are available from S$200 and Singapore tax residents are eligible for 250 percent tax deduction.
“Support from individuals, corporations and foundations is essential to enable a flourishing arts scene to bloom and expand its reach. National Gallery Singapore is thankful for the support we have received for one of our major fundraising events; this allows us to catalyse a range of artistic expression, ensure access to underserved communities and generate greater innovation,” said Ms Chong Siak Ching, Chief Executive, National Gallery Singapore and Gallery Benefit 2023 Co-Chair.
Reflecting National Gallery Singapore’s robust commitment in nurturing Southeast Asia’s art ecosystem through collaborative research and groundbreaking exhibitions, most of the benefit auction’s artwork donations have been graciously donated by artists from the region.
“The Gallery Benefit 2023 Committee is heartened by the outpouring of support from Southeast Asia’s arts community and philanthropists for National Gallery Singapore. As a gesture of appreciation for their graciousness, an unforgettable evening has been prepared for our guests,” said Ms. Kim Camacho, Gallery Benefit 2023 Co-Chair. “I am certain that the high quality and broad range of Benefit auction artworks and experiences will resonate with any discerning collector.”
The live auction includes an impressive selection of artworks by artists from the region. They include Diaphanous 861, a painting with translucent, geometric overlapping shapes by the late Filipino artist, Romulo Olazo. Volcanic Ash Series (Amanat Galunggung), a monumental artwork by Indonesian artist Arin Dwihartanto Sunaryo incorporating volcanic ash which reflects his country’s rich natural and cultural history.
Natee Utarit, a sought-after Thai artist has donated Two Tamarind Trees, a painting inspired by Singapore’s urban scenery. One of Singapore’s most significant artists, Lim Tze Peng’s《中秋月饼》(Lantern Festival) has captured a nostalgic scene before the country’s rapid modernization. Beyond artworks, experiences such as an exclusive tour of Antony Gormley’s studio hosted by the acclaimed sculptor, will also be available.
The online auction will showcase the talents of a spectrum of artists, many of whom have donated works which respond to the Tropical theme. Amongst them is Indy Paredes’s Natural High, which explores the significance of elevated living in Filipino culture. Another exuberant piece, The Odd One Out, by Chan Kar Wai of Malaysia leverages on a tropical scene to remind the audience of the joy of living.
Award winning Singapore artist, Han Sai Por explores the theme of sustainability and perseverance through her work, Nestles 5. Other highlights include a pastel triptych by Indonesian artist Syagini Ratna Wulan, Aether Atrium, which blurs the boundaries between painting and sculpture. While Vine, a kinetic sculpture by Carlo Calma invites the viewer to immerse themselves in the interplay of light and shadow. All live auction works, and a selection of online auction works will be available for viewing at National Gallery Singapore on Nov. 16 to 17, 2023. Please refer to the Benefit’s website for more information.
Gallery Benefit 2023 is supported by a host of generous partners which are found in the Annex.