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Gillman Barracks

A contemporary arts cluster in the former military quarters

Gillman Barracks

9 Lock Rd, Singapore 108937
Phone:
non
Tue-Sun 11:00–19:00
Closed on Mondays
www.gillmanbarracks.com

Gillman Barracks is the ultimate cultural hub of Singapore. Here you will find the world’s leading art galleries, a national research centre NTU Centre for Contemporary Art neighboring with an array of trendy bars and restaurants. Back in the 1930s Gillman Barracks were the headquarters of the British military. Today this place is a celebrated destination for art connoisseurs, creatives and gastro-enthusiasts.

In 2010 the Singapore government announced the plans of developing Gillman Barracks into a world-class contemporary arts cluster. In 2012 the doors were open to its first visitors and Gillman Barracks soon became the city’s mecca of contemporary art. Currently it comprises of more than 10 international and Southeast Asian art galleries representing acclaimed artists such as Ai Weiwei.

You can easily spend the whole day in Gillman Barracks, however if you are pressed for time, pop by a few galleries recognised on the global arena for representing Asian contemporary art. Ota Fine Arts has established a strong reputation showcasing Japanese artists since its inception in Tokyo in 1994. Representing well-known names such as Kusama as well as rising stars from the emerging scenes of China and Korea, in the recent years the gallery gained attention of international collectors through a series of groundbreaking exhibitions of Iranian art.

Our next favourite stop is at Pearl Lam Galleries. With branches in Shanghai and Hong Kong, they represent established Chinese artists including Zhu Jinshi and Su Xiaobai, whose works are part of the prominent art collections around the world. ShanghART Singapore is another gallery worth a visit. For the past 20 years it has championed new names of the contemporary art scene in China representing more than 40 artists and participating in the leading international art fairs.

Gillman Barracks also boasts a vast landscape with picturesque walking routes and outdoor sculpures and art installations on public display. Besides art you will find a great selection of restaurants and bars in Gillman Barracks. Try casual-style Nekkid for cocktails or stay for dinner at the Naked Finn.

Key info: galleries are closed on Mondays and holidays; NTU Centre for Contemporary art is open Tuesday-Sunday 12 till 19.00, with late openings on Fridays until 21.00. The restaurants are open every day.

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