1. What is the history behind the establishment of LASALLE College of the Arts in Singapore?
The establishment of LASALLE College of the Arts in Singapore dates back to 1984, when the government recognized the need for a specialized institution of higher learning in the arts. At that time, there were no local institutions offering degree programs in art and design, and students had to go overseas to pursue their studies.
In 1986, the Ministry of Education (MOE) commissioned a study to explore the feasibility of establishing an arts education institution in Singapore. The report recommended that such an institution be established to provide professional training in various fields of art such as visual arts, performing arts, design and media.
In 1991, MOE formed a committee headed by Mr. Lee Suan Hiang, then CEO of National Arts Council (NAC), to oversee the planning and development of the college. The committee consisted of representatives from NAC, Ministry of Information and the Arts (MITA), Economic Development Board (EDB), National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU).
After careful considerations and discussion, it was decided that LASALLE would provide quality education in both contemporary and traditional Asian art forms. It would also act as a centre for artistic research and dialogue.
On 12 April 1993, President Wee Kim Wee laid the foundation stone at McNally Street for LASALLE’s new campus building designed by architect Mr William Lim Siew Wai. The ceremony marked a significant milestone towards realizing its mission to become a leading university for contemporary arts education in Southeast Asia.
Finally, on 13 September 2007, LASALLE moved into its new state-of-the-art campus at McNally Street equipped with modern facilities such as black box theatre spaces, design studios, gallery space and music recording studios. Today, LASALLE offers over thirty full-time diploma and degree programs across its faculties in Fine Arts; Design Communication; Interior Design; Product Design; Fashion Design and Textiles; Dance; Music, Theatre and the LA SALLE-SIA College of the Arts’s partnership Bachelor of Arts in Art History /Bachelor of Fine Arts.
2. Are there any famous historical figures who have visited or studied at LASALLE College of the Arts?
There are several famous historical figures who have visited or studied at LASALLE College of the Arts:1. Lee Kuan Yew – The first Prime Minister of Singapore and one of the founding fathers of modern Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew attended LASALLE College of the Arts for a short period of time in 1947 before transferring to University of Cambridge.
2. Ong Teng Cheong – The first elected President of Singapore, Ong Teng Cheong studied architecture at LASALLE College of the Arts in the 1960s.
3. Chinua Achebe – A Nigerian novelist and poet, considered to be one of Africa’s most influential writers, Chinua Achebe was a visiting professor at LASALLE College of the Arts in 1966-67. He taught literature and writing classes during his time at the college.
4. Liang Wern Fook – A renowned Singaporean composer and songwriter, Liang Wern Fook graduated from LASALLE College of the Arts with a degree in Music in 1996.
5. Teo Eng Seng – One of Singapore’s pioneer artists and a Cultural Medallion recipient, Teo Eng Seng was a lecturer at LASALLE College of the Arts for over three decades before his retirement in 2013.
6. Tan Swie Hian – An internationally acclaimed artist, writer, and poet from Singapore, Tan Swie Hian also taught Chinese calligraphy classes at LASALLE College of the Arts in its early years.
7. Tang Da Wu – One of Singapore’s prominent contemporary artists and founder of The Artists Village, Tang Da Wu graduated from LASALLE College of the Arts with a diploma in Fine Art in 1975.
8. Masakazu Kusakabe – A Japanese painter known for his dynamic abstract artworks, Masakazu Kusakabe was an exchange student at LASALLE College of the Arts in the 1990s.
9. Gwei Lun-mei – A Taiwanese actress and singer, Gwei Lun-mei was a student at LASALLE College of the Arts for one semester in 2005 as an exchange student.
10. Stella Kon – A Singaporean playwright, novelist, and educator, Stella Kon was a lecturer at LASALLE College of the Arts between 1984 and 1997, teaching drama and creative writing classes.
3. Can you recommend any specific landmarks or sightseeing spots around LASALLE College of the Arts that showcase its rich history and cultural significance?
Some potential landmarks and sightseeing spots to explore around LASALLE College of the Arts could include:
1. The Singapore Art Museum: Located just a 10-minute walk from LASALLE, the Singapore Art Museum is a great place to learn more about contemporary art in Southeast Asia. It also frequently hosts exhibitions featuring work by LASALLE students and alumni.
2. National Library Building: This impressive building is located directly across from LASALLE and is a popular spot for its spacious reading areas, interesting architecture, and cultural events.
3. Waterloo Centre: Just a few blocks away from LASALLE, this heritage building was once home to several dance studios and continues to house some of Singapore’s most renowned performing arts schools.
4. Armenian Street: This historic street in the Bras Basah-Bugis district is home to many cultural landmarks such as the Peranakan Museum and the Battle Box, which can provide insights into Singapore’s colonial past.
5. Bugis Street Market: A short walk from LASALLE, this lively street market offers a glimpse into local culture and is a popular spot for shopping and trying out local street food.
6. Parkview Square: Known as “Singapore’s Gotham building,” this iconic Art Deco skyscraper is located near LASALLE and is home to several art galleries and upscale restaurants.
7. Fort Canning Park: One of Singapore’s oldest parks, Fort Canning features historic sites such as Battle Box, once an underground command center during World War II, as well as beautiful gardens and walking trails.
These are just a few suggestions among many possible landmarks and sights that showcase the rich history and cultural significance of LASALLE College of the Arts’ surrounding area. Further exploration will surely uncover even more hidden gems with unique stories to tell.
4. Are there any ancient artifacts or relics on display at LASALLE College of the Arts campus, reflecting its deep roots in Singapore’s heritage?
Yes, there are several ancient artifacts and relics on display at the LASALLE College of the Arts campus that reflect its deep roots in Singapore’s heritage. These include:
1. The Thousand-hand Guanyin Sculpture: This large-scale bronze sculpture is displayed at the main entrance of the McNally Campus and depicts the Goddess of Mercy surrounded by 1,000 smaller hands, symbolizing her infinite compassion. It was gifted to LASALLE by Buddhist philanthropist Lee Boh Wah in 1986 and is a replica of a famous Tang Dynasty sculpture.
2. Chinese Calligraphy Inscriptions: Throughout the campus, visitors can find inscriptions of Chinese calligraphy on various walls and pillars. These were done by renowned calligrapher Ong Kim Seng and feature various poems and phrases that reflect traditional Chinese values and culture.
3. Balinese Carvings: On the outdoor staircase leading to Block F, visitors can admire intricately carved panels showcasing Balinese mythology and traditional motifs. These were commissioned from master carvers Ketut Djana Sadra & I Nyoman Mulyawan in collaboration with LASALLE faculty.
4. Ceramic Mural Panels: In the Winstedt Campus, there are two ceramic mural panels created by local artist Sun Yu-li in 1994. These depict scenes from classical Chinese literature and serve as a reminder of Singapore’s multicultural heritage.
5. Kamcheng Collections: Displayed in the lobby of Gali Batu Studio Theatre, these collections of Peranakan (Straits-born people of mixed Chinese-Malay heritage) pottery were donated by collector Benny Yap in 1998. They showcase intricate designs and patterns influenced by both Chinese and Malay cultures.
Overall, these artifacts and relics provide insight into different aspects of Singapore’s cultural heritage and add to the unique atmosphere of LASALLE College of the Arts’ campus.
5. Is there a particular architectural style or design that dominates the buildings and structures within or around LASALLE College of the Arts?
The architecture of LASALLE College of the Arts reflects a blend of both traditional and contemporary styles. The campus is primarily composed of modern, functional buildings with clean lines and utilitarian features.
However, there are also several colonial-era buildings that have been preserved and integrated into the overall design. These structures have a more traditional architectural style, featuring elements such as stately columns, ornate detailing, and spacious verandas.
In addition, the Performing Arts Centre at LASALLE has a distinct circular design with a striking metal facade, giving it a futuristic and avant-garde aesthetic. Overall, the college’s architecture reflects a harmonious mix of old and new, reflecting its mission to merge heritage and innovation in its approach to arts education.
6. In what ways has LASALLE College of the Arts played a role in preserving Singapore’s traditional arts and crafts?
LASALLE College of the Arts has played a significant role in preserving Singapore’s traditional arts and crafts through various initiatives and programs:
1. Reviving Traditional Art Forms: The college offers courses and workshops on traditional art forms such as batik, pottery, embroidery, and woodcarving. Through these programs, students are introduced to the history, techniques, and skills required to preserve these traditional art forms.
2. Collaborations with Traditional Art Practitioners: LASALLE regularly collaborates with traditional artists and craftsmen to document their knowledge and techniques. These collaborations result in the creation of new artworks, while also helping to preserve traditional skills and knowledge.
3. Research and Documentation: The college conducts research on various traditional art forms in Singapore, documenting their histories, techniques, and cultural significance. This documentation serves as a resource for future generations interested in learning about these art forms.
4. Exhibitions and Performances: LASALLE organizes exhibitions and performances featuring traditional art forms to raise awareness about them among the public. These events provide a platform for traditional artists to showcase their work and promote their craft.
5. International Exchange Programs: The college has partnerships with institutions in other countries where traditional arts and crafts are still practiced. Through exchange programs, students have the opportunity to learn from practitioners in these countries and bring back their knowledge to Singapore.
6. Community Outreach Projects: LASALLE regularly conducts community outreach projects where students collaborate with local communities to create artwork using traditional techniques. This not only helps to preserve these arts but also promotes social cohesion by bringing people together through cultural activities.
Overall, LASALLE College of the Arts plays a crucial role in educating students about Singapore’s traditional arts and crafts while also actively promoting their preservation within the local community.
7. Can visitors take guided tours around LASALLE College of the Arts to learn more about its history and legacy?
Yes, visitors can take guided tours around LASALLE College of the Arts to learn more about its history and legacy. These tours are typically conducted by students or alumni of the college who are familiar with its campus, facilities, and programs. Interested visitors can contact the admissions department or visit the college’s website for more information on tour schedules and bookings. Additionally, special tours may be available during open houses or events hosted by the college.
8. Are there any events or festivals held at LASALLE College of the Arts that celebrate its history and multicultural identity?
There are multiple events and festivals held at LASALLE College of the Arts that celebrate its history and multicultural identity. Some examples include:
1. LASALLE Show: This event is held annually to showcase the final works of graduating students from various disciplines, celebrating their diverse cultural backgrounds and artistic talents.
2. International Youth Arts Festival: Organized by LASALLE’s School of Dance, this festival brings together young dancers from different nations to participate in workshops, performances, and cultural exchanges.
3. Diverse-City: This festival celebrates diversity and inclusivity through a series of performances, exhibitions, workshops, and talks that highlights the talents of LASALLE’s diverse student body.
4. Cultural Heritage Celebration: This event showcases the rich cultural heritage of Singapore through performances, workshops, and exhibitions by students from different cultural backgrounds.
5. Performance Season: As Southeast Asia’s leading institution in contemporary arts education, LASALLE frequently invites international artists to perform at its campus as part of its Performance Season.
6. Open House: The annual Open House event at LASALLE features a wide range of activities including art installations, music performances, film screenings, workshops, and talks that celebrate the college’s heritage and diversity.
7. Artist Talks & Lectures: Throughout the year, LASALLE invites renowned artists and scholars from various parts of the world to give talks on topics related to art history, culture and society.
8. Singapore Night Festival: Held in collaboration with the National Museum of Singapore and other cultural institutions across the city-state, this festival showcases a diverse range of art forms by local and international artists on LASALLE’s campus.
9. How has LASALLE College of the Arts adapted to modern times while still honoring its historical significance?
Lasalle College of the Arts has adapted to modern times while still honoring its historical significance by incorporating a combination of traditional and modern approaches to arts education.One of the ways the college has adapted is by offering a diverse range of programs and courses that cater to contemporary art practices, while also maintaining traditional art forms such as painting, sculpture, and printmaking. This allows students to explore various mediums and techniques, while also preserving traditional art forms that hold significance in art history.
Additionally, LASALLE has embraced technology in its teaching methods. The college offers courses in digital media, animation and game design, allowing students to incorporate new technologies into their artistic expressions. By doing so, LASALLE ensures that students are equipped with the necessary skills to navigate the constantly evolving art world.
Furthermore, the college has also established partnerships with leading international institutions and organizations, providing students with opportunities for global exposure and collaboration. This not only allows students to gain a broader perspective on art but also keeps LASALLE connected to global movements and trends in the art world.
At the same time, LASALLE continues to preserve its heritage through its rigorous academic curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and research skills. Students are encouraged to study the history of art and understand the cultural contexts surrounding different artistic practices. The college also actively engages with local communities by organizing exhibitions, workshops, talks, and community outreach initiatives that promote Singapore’s cultural heritage.
Overall, LASALLE College of the Arts has successfully integrated traditional values with contemporary practices in its curriculum and approach towards arts education. This enables students to develop into well-rounded artists who are able to appreciate their historical roots while simultaneously pushing boundaries in their creative expressions.
10. Is there a particular neighborhood or district surrounding LASALLE College of the Arts that is known for its historical landmarks and attractions?
The Bras Basah-Bugis district, where LASALLE College of the Arts is located, is known for its mix of modern and historical landmarks and attractions. Some notable landmarks in this area include the National Museum of Singapore, Fort Canning Park, and the Istana Kampong Glam (a former palace turned cultural landmark). This district also boasts a diverse range of art galleries, street art, and historical buildings that showcase Singapore’s multicultural heritage.
11. Has LASALLE College of the Arts collaborated with other historical institutions or organizations in preserving Singapore’s cultural heritage?
Yes, LASALLE College of the Arts has collaborated with other historical institutions or organizations in preserving Singapore’s cultural heritage. Some examples include:
1. Collaborating with the National Heritage Board on various projects such as “Explore Chinatown” to document and celebrate Chinatown’s rich cultural heritage.
2. Partnering with the Asian Civilisations Museum on exhibitions and programmes that highlight traditional and contemporary forms of Southeast Asian art and culture.
3. Working with the National Gallery Singapore on a research project called “Collectors’ Stage: Asian Contemporary Art in Private Collections” that examined the role of private collectors in shaping contemporary art in Asia.
4. Collaborating with local heritage groups such as The Peranakan Association (Singapore) and Kampong Glam Heritage Association to preserve and promote the unique cultural identities of these communities through events, workshops, and exhibitions.
5. Supporting the efforts of the Singapore Heritage Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the conservation and preservation of Singapore’s built heritage through educational programmes, research projects, and publications.
12. Are there any ongoing preservation efforts to maintain the historical landmarks and sites around LASALLE College of the Arts?
Yes, LASALLE College of the Arts is committed to preserving and maintaining the historical landmarks and sites around its campus. The school regularly conducts maintenance and restoration work on these buildings, including the historic Black Box Theatre, McNally Park, and colonial-era buildings such as Block F.
In addition, in 2013, LASALLE launched a Heritage Trail project which maps out the heritage buildings in the area surrounding its campus. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the rich cultural history of the area and promote appreciation for these landmarks among students and members of the public.
LASALLE also collaborates with relevant government agencies and organizations to ensure that any developments or changes made in the vicinity of its campus do not compromise the integrity and character of these historic sites.
13. How have local communities been involved in shaping and maintaining these historic landmarks near LASALLE College of the Arts?
Local communities have been involved in shaping and maintaining historic landmarks near LASALLE College of the Arts through various means such as:
1. Advocacy: Local residents, community groups, and heritage organizations have played a crucial role in advocating for the preservation of historic landmarks near LASALLE. They often organize rallies, protests, and public forums to raise awareness about the importance of these landmarks and the need to protect them.
2. Partnerships: LASALLE has collaborated with local communities and civic organizations on restoration projects for several historic landmarks near the college. This has helped create a sense of ownership and pride among local residents towards these landmarks.
3. Volunteerism: Many community members volunteer their time and skills to help maintain these historic landmarks. This includes tasks such as cleaning, gardening, organizing events or tours, and raising funds for renovation and upkeep.
4. Educational programs: Local schools and community centers often organize educational programs for students and residents to learn about the history of these landmarks. This helps raise awareness about their cultural significance and promotes a sense of responsibility towards their preservation.
5. Festivals/events: The local community is actively involved in organizing festivals, street fairs, art exhibitions, and other events held at these historic landmarks near LASALLE. These events not only celebrate the cultural heritage of the area but also bring people together to support its preservation.
6. Fundraising efforts: Community members often participate in fundraising efforts to generate funds for restoration work or ongoing maintenance costs for these historic landmarks.
7. Tours/guided walks: Local residents also share their knowledge of these historic landmarks by conducting guided walks or providing historical information during tours organized by various groups.
Overall, the involvement of local communities has played a critical role in shaping and maintaining historic landmarks near LASALLE College of the Arts by fostering a collective sense of responsibility towards their preservation.
14. Can you recommend any lesser-known sightseeing spots near LASALLE College of the Arts that offer unique insights into Singapore’s cultural past?
1. Chinatown Heritage Centre: This museum offers a comprehensive look into the history and culture of Singapore’s early Chinese immigrants.
2. Thian Hock Keng Temple: A traditional Chinese temple located in the heart of the city, it is one of the oldest Taoist temples in Singapore and reflects the influence of Chinese culture on the island.
3. Kampong Glam: This historic Malay enclave is home to colorful shophouses, traditional eateries, and an iconic Sultan Mosque.
4. National Museum of Singapore: Located near Fort Canning Hill, this museum showcases the country’s history and cultural heritage through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
5. Katong Antique House: Experience a slice of Peranakan (Straits Chinese) life at this authentic house-museum filled with rare antiques, furniture, and artworks.
6. Indian Heritage Centre: Learn about the diverse Indian communities that have contributed to Singapore’s development at this modern museum.
7. MacRitchie Reservoir Park: Take a break from the bustling city and explore this nature reserve, which also holds historical significance as a former British wartime airfield.
8. Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall: This villa-turned-museum honors revolutionary leader Dr. Sun Yat Sen and his efforts towards overthrowing imperial rule in China.
9. Haw Par Villa: This eccentric theme park features over 1,000 statues and dioramas depicting Chinese mythology and folklore.
10.Lau Pa Sat Market: Sample authentic local cuisine at this bustling food market which has been in operation since the 1800s.
15. Does LASSALE College of Art offer courses specifically focusing on Singaporean history and culture?
No, LASSALE College of Art does not offer courses specifically focusing on Singaporean history and culture. Our courses are primarily focused on the visual arts and design. However, students may have the opportunity to incorporate elements of Singaporean history and culture into their projects or assignments if relevant to their chosen course or program.
16.Are there any nearby museums, galleries, or exhibitions that complement a visit to LASSALE College of Art and provide a deeper understanding of its history?
Yes, there are a few museums, galleries, and exhibitions located near LASSALE College of Art that can further enhance your understanding of its history. Here are some recommendations:
1. National Gallery Singapore – This world-class art museum showcases the largest collection of Southeast Asian art in the world, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works. It also features a section dedicated to Singapore’s art history and development.
2. Singapore Art Museum – Located just a short walk from LASSALE College of Art, this contemporary art museum is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building. It holds a diverse collection of modern and contemporary Southeast Asian artwork.
3. National Museum of Singapore – This comprehensive museum traces the history of Singapore from its early beginnings to present day through interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and artefacts.
4. The Substation – Founded by theatre director Kuo Pao Kun in 1990, this multi-disciplinary arts centre has a rich history of nurturing local artists and promoting experimental artistic practices.
5. Chinatown Heritage Centre – A visit to this immersive museum will give you insights into the daily lives of early Chinese immigrants and the growth of Chinatown as an important cultural enclave in Singapore.
By visiting these institutions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding not only of LASSALE College of Art but also of the larger art scene in Singapore.
17. How has the surrounding environment and landscape around LASALLE College of the Arts changed over the years, and what impact has it had on the college’s development?
Over the years, the surrounding environment and landscape around LASALLE College of the Arts has undergone significant changes that have had a major impact on the college’s development.
1. Growth of the Bugis Arts and Cultural District: Located in Singapore’s central business district, the Bugis area where LASALLE is situated has transformed into a vibrant arts and cultural hub. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in galleries, performance spaces, and public art installations around LASALLE, which has enhanced its profile as an arts institution.
2. Development of modern facilities: The government’s investment in developing infrastructure and amenities around Lasalle has greatly benefited the college. The construction of new buildings such as the School of Dance and the Creative Technologies Annex (CTA) has provided state-of-the-art facilities for students to hone their skills in various disciplines.
3. Integration with Bras Basah Complex: Located right next to Bras Basah Complex, LASALLE enjoys easy accessibility to an array of resources, from printing services to libraries and bookshops. This integration with one of Singapore’s oldest cultural landmarks has further strengthened its position as an arts institution.
4. Enhancement of Public Spaces: The development of public spaces such as Queen Street (stretching between Rochor Road and Bras Basah Road) and Stamford Green (adjacent to CTA) adds to Lasalle’s appeal as a vibrant space for artistic expression by providing outdoor spaces for gatherings, performances, exhibitions etc.
5. Improvement in transportation links: With increased connectivity through public transportation such as MRT stations within walking distance from LASALLE including Bugis MRT station this makes travelling much more convenient for students commuting from across Singapore.
The changes in surrounding environment have had a positive impact on Lasalle’s progress over time by providing an ideal location at heart soften catering towards nurturing creativity among artists who usually involve themselves in performing stage work or host exhibitions when not utilized Norwich Chelsea Campus manage production behind the scenes. This promotes our budding artists by providing an encouraging a highly collaborative, and creative space in which to thrive. The growing art scene in the neighbourhood has also enabled LASALLE to forge connections with other arts institutions, fostering greater synergy and collaborations between different artistic disciplines.
Overall, the constantly evolving landscape around LASALLE has helped shape its identity as a premier arts institution in Singapore, offering dynamic and forward-thinking programs that cater to the ever-changing needs of the arts community.
18. How does LASALLE College of the Arts engage with the local community in preserving and promoting Singapore’s cultural heritage?
LASALLE College of the Arts engages with the local community in preserving and promoting Singapore’s cultural heritage in several ways.
1. Cultural events and exhibitions: LASALLE regularly organizes cultural events and exhibitions that showcase Singapore’s diverse cultural arts, such as traditional dance performances, music concerts, and visual art shows. These events are open to the public and serve as a platform to celebrate and promote Singapore’s cultural heritage.
2. Collaborations with local artists and organizations: LASALLE partners with local artists and organizations to create collaborative projects that preserve and promote Singapore’s cultural heritage. For example, the college has worked with the National Heritage Board on projects that document and showcase significant aspects of Singapore’s cultural history.
3. Heritage research and documentation: LASALLE’s faculty members conduct research on various aspects of Singapore’s cultural heritage, ranging from traditional craft techniques to performing arts traditions. This research helps in documenting these practices for future generations and also informs contemporary artistic expressions.
4. Community outreach programmes: LASALLE students participate in community outreach programmes where they work together with local communities to preserve their traditional arts and crafts. These programmes aim to educate students about Singapore’s diverse cultures while providing them with opportunities to contribute to preserving its heritage.
5. Training and education: The college offers courses in different art forms, including traditional dance, music, and crafts that have been part of Singapore’s cultural heritage for generations. By training students in these art forms, LASALLE contributes towards preserving them for future generations.
6. Continuing education programmes: LASALLE offers continuing education programmes for adults who are interested in learning more about Singapore’s cultural heritage through hands-on classes or seminars taught by experts in their respective fields.
7. International collaborations: Through its partnerships with international institutions, LASALLE facilitates exchanges between artists from different countries, promoting cross-cultural exchange that helps preserve traditional art forms while giving them a contemporary touch.
Overall, LASALLE aims to raise awareness about Singapore’s cultural heritage and its importance in the country’s identity. By engaging with the local community, the college hopes to foster a deeper appreciation for these traditions and contribute towards their preservation for future generations.
19. Are there any iconic landmarks or structures that are synonymous with LASALLE College of the Arts, and what is their significance?
1. McNally Campus Building: This iconic landmark is the main building of LASALLE College of the Arts and houses its various schools, offices, and facilities. Designed by local architect Mok Wei Wei, the building features a distinct curved roof and modern design, reflecting the college’s emphasis on creativity and innovation.
2. Praxis Space: Located within the McNally Campus Building, this multi-purpose space is known for its unique curved walls and specialised lighting system, making it a popular location for performances, exhibitions, and events.
3. Chapel: The chapel at LASALLE serves as a symbol of spiritual life and has been an integral part of the college since its establishment in 1984. It is also used for concerts, recitals, and other music performances.
4. Objectifs – Centre for Photography & Filmmaking: Formerly known as The Substation Gallery until 2015, Objectifs is a contemporary art space that showcases photography and film works by local and international artists. It is affiliated with LASALLE College of the Arts through its School of Creative Industries.
5. Ngee Ann Kongsi Galleries: Located within LASALLE’s Lasalle-SIA College of the Arts (LSCA) campus at Winstedt Road, these galleries were established in partnership with Ngee Ann Kongsi in 1992 to promote cultural exchange between Singapore and China.
6. Pao Kun Exhibition Gallery: Named after renowned theatre doyen Kuo Pao Kun, this gallery at LSCA showcases student works from the Diploma in Theatre programme as well as curated exhibitions by external artists.
7. Winstedt Campus Building: This historic colonial building was once occupied by both LASALLE College of the Arts (formerly NAFA) and SIA Training Centre before being fully taken over by LASALLE in 2003. It houses classrooms, studios, workshops, a black box theatre and editing suites used by the School of Film & Media.
8. Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) Singapore: Housed in LASALLE’s sister institution, the Institute of Contemporary Arts Singapore is a non-profit visual arts organisation that mounts curated exhibitions and runs public programmes focusing on Asian contemporary art.
9. ViDE – Atrium Art Space: The atrium at McNally Campus Building is transformed into an art gallery for LASALLE students to showcase their works as part of its integrated classroom experience. Exhibitions change every three weeks, offering students a platform to hone their presentation skills, networking opportunities and exposure.
20. Can you recommend any local shops or markets near LASALLE College of the Arts that sell traditional handicrafts or souvenirs that reflect Singapore’s cultural heritage?
1) Chinatown Heritage Centre Gift Shop – This shop offers a variety of traditional handicrafts, including Chinese lanterns, calligraphy sets, and other souvenirs that showcase Singapore’s Chinese heritage. It is located at 48 Pagoda Street, just a 10-minute walk from LASALLE College of the Arts.
2) Mustafa Centre – Known as one of the largest and busiest shopping centers in Little India, Mustafa Centre has a section dedicated to souvenirs and traditional Indian handicrafts. You can find items such as silk scarves, decorative items, and jewelry here.
3) Haji Lane – Located in the vibrant Kampong Glam neighborhood, Haji Lane is known for its eclectic mix of independent shops selling unique handmade goods. You can find traditional Malay batik fabrics, hand-painted trinkets, and other cultural souvenirs here.
4) The Art Faculty by Old School – This store showcases the works of local artists with disabilities. At their store in LASALLE College of the Arts itself, you can find handcrafted products such as tote bags, notebooks,and accessories featuring Singaporean artwork and designs.
5) National Gallery Singapore Museum Shop – For a more upscale option, you can visit the museum shop at National Gallery Singapore which features souvenir items inspired by their collections and exhibitions. Here you can find mini replicas of traditional Peranakan houses or contemporary art-inspired trinkets.
6) Arab Street/ Bussorah Street – These streets in the Arab Quarter offer various shops selling Middle Eastern products such as perfumes, textiles, and carpets. You may also come across some local vendors selling handmade pottery or authentic Arabian coffee beans.