The highly anticipated Light to Night Singapore 2025 returns as a marquee event of Singapore Art Week, shining a spotlight on local artistic talent under the theme “Do You See Me?”. This year’s festival, running from 17 January to 6 February 2025, encourages visitors to reflect on identity and diversity, showcasing stories and perspectives from various communities, including those less frequently seen.
With more than 70 captivating artworks and programmes, the Civic District will come alive over three art-filled weeks. Highlights include mesmerizing projection mappings on iconic cultural landmarks, large-scale installations, and immersive activities designed for all ages.
Executive Director Ms. Ong Zhen Min shares that this year’s theme, “Do You See Me?”, delves into the multifaceted identities that shape our society. As Singapore celebrates its 60th birthday and the National Gallery marks its 10th anniversary, the festival’s lineup seeks to inspire reflections on individuality, belonging, and community through the transformative power of art.
The festival honours local artists whose works have significantly shaped Singapore’s arts landscape.
- Han Sai Por, Cultural Medallion recipient, presents Travelling Through the Tropical Rainforest at the Padang, featuring six monumental inflatable sculptures inspired by tropical palms. This centerpiece contrasts natural forms with urban materials, symbolizing the relationship between nature and city life.
- Projection mappings for Art Skins on Monuments will illuminate cultural landmarks with works by three notable artists: Chng Seok Tin, Goh Beng Kwan, and Jaafar Latiff. This year marks the first time the legacies of late artists are showcased through projection mappings, thanks to collaboration with their estates.
The festival offers unique platforms for underrepresented voices and communities.
- Claire Teo, a visually impaired artist, presents Through The Looking Glass, a multi-sensory installation sharing her lived experiences.
- TraseOne’s light projection, Now You See Us?, explores Singapore’s graffiti scene and highlights evolving narratives of visibility.
- A traveling photo showcase celebrating the migrant community will also be featured as part of International Migrants Day 2024.
Interactive installations such as Return to Paradise by Beverley Ng and A Little Bead of Work by Kray Chen invite visitors to reflect on nostalgia and creativity. Other standout works include We’ll Make Heaven a Place on Earth by Arterly Obsessed and the performative installation Blades, Shrapnel by Ang Song Nian.
From art lovers to families, there’s something for everyone:
- Art X Social: Festival Street at St. Andrew’s Road will be buzzing with food, live performances, and games over three weekends.
- The Singapore Courtyard at the Gallery will transform into The Living Room, featuring interactive workshops, artist talks, and music.
- Immersive experiences include Scarce City by Rainshadow Studio, which tackles sustainability themes through light gameplay, and Escaped the Art, an interactive theatre mystery by Strawberries Inc.
Free performances, including music, dance, and DJ sets, will enhance the festive atmosphere during weekends as part of the Gallery Gigs and Resonates With Residency series.
During festival weekends, the National Gallery will stay open until 11 PM, offering free entry to exhibitions, including special showcases dedicated to trailblazing Singaporean artists like Kim Lim, Lim Tze Peng, and Teo Eng Seng.
With its vibrant programming and thought-provoking theme, Light to Night Singapore 2025 invites everyone to connect with the arts and celebrate the diverse stories that define our shared cultural heritage. Entry is free, with select ticketed experiences available for pre-booking on the festival’s website.
