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Wazzup Pilipinas!?
SINGAPORE – In 2025, the National Gallery Singapore reaches a defining moment: its 10th anniversary. A decade of daring, of dreaming, and of making art accessible to all. But anniversaries are not just markers of time; they are milestones that demand reflection, vision, and celebration. And in Singapore, few events embody that spirit more powerfully than the Gallery Gala—a biennial beacon of philanthropy and art that has become one of the most anticipated nights on the nation’s cultural calendar.
This year’s edition, themed “A Decade of Imagination,” will take place on 13 September 2025. It promises not just glamour, but purpose: raising the Gallery’s highest fundraising total yet to fuel its mission of building a thoughtful, creative, and inclusive society through art. The funds raised will support blockbuster exhibitions, global collaborations, and programmes designed for seniors, children, and underserved communities—ensuring that art’s transformative power reaches every corner of society.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong will grace the evening as Guest of Honour, underscoring the national significance of the event.
Dining Where History Meets Art
For the first time, the Gala will open the exhibition galleries themselves as the dining stage—an unprecedented opportunity for guests to experience art spaces in an entirely new light. Here, long tables will stretch beneath masterpieces, as conversation and creativity intertwine beneath the weight of history.
Adding flavour to the evening, some of Singapore’s most celebrated chefs will craft a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. Julien Royer of three-Michelin-starred Odette, Damian D’Silva, the “godfather of Singapore Heritage Cuisine,” and legendary Peranakan chef Violet Oon—who will be cooking live—promise a menu as bold and imaginative as the art on the walls.
An Auction for the Ages
The evening will culminate in a Sotheby’s-managed charity auction, featuring rare luxury experiences and 70 exceptional artworks by renowned names such as Yayoi Kusama, Fernando Zóbel, Liu Kang, Heman Chong, and Ronald Ventura.
From private curated tours at the American Museum of Natural History, to stepping into Justin Hurwitz’s recording studio during a live film scoring session, to once-in-a-lifetime Belmond luxury journeys across Europe—this year’s auction blurs the lines between art, experience, and legacy.
But the art is equally compelling. From Sam Lo’s witty cultural reflections to Ruben Pang’s bold explorations of the human condition, the auction celebrates both established masters and fearless contemporary voices who are shaping Southeast Asia’s cultural story.
The Stewards of Imagination
Behind the grandeur of the Gala lies a team of 11 leaders from art, business, philanthropy, and culture who have spent nearly a year shaping its concept and direction:
Aun Koh, Gala Co-chair, emphasizes the spirit of collective passion: “These are all volunteers donating their time, resources, and networks because they believe in the Gallery’s mission. My team and I are indebted to this dynamic and inspiring group of leaders, trendsetters, and catalysts.”
Jazz Chong, also Co-chair, reflects on art’s power: “Art is more than beauty on a wall—it can connect communities, shift perspectives, and inspire change.”
Lee Woon Shiu sees imagination as Singapore’s defining asset: “Our nation’s greatest strength lies in our ability to dream differently and turn visionary ideas into reality.”
Other committee members—including Celeste Basapa, Vir Kotak, Albert Lee, Ho Kheng Lian, Wendy Long, Jason Ong, Willabelle Ong, and Layla Pi—each bring unique perspectives, from celebrating Singapore’s 60th year of independence (SG60) to championing art as both cultural treasure and social equalizer. Their personal auction favourites—from Noor Mahmum’s New Shoes to Willabelle Ong’s own Rolling Sea—reflect the eclectic, deeply personal nature of this year’s offerings.
A Legacy Beyond a Night
The Gallery Gala is not simply an evening of luxury and art; it is a bridge between creativity and community. Proceeds will empower the Gallery to expand its curatorial research, mount international exhibitions, and develop outreach programmes that bring art to those who need it most.
As Dr Eugene Tan, CEO and Director of National Gallery Singapore, puts it:
“A Decade of Imagination reflects our belief that the next ten years demand fresh perspectives. We must reinvent how we connect with evolving audiences while staying true to our mission. This year, we aim to raise a record sum to sustain our role as Singapore’s leading home for art. It is only through generosity that we can continue to champion Southeast Asian art and foster cultural dialogues that enrich lives across our community.”
More Than a Fundraiser
The Gallery Gala has often been likened to Singapore’s own “Met Gala,” but at its core, it is much more than red carpets and dazzling gowns. With the theme “Black Tie Reimagined”, this year’s fashion will be as bold as the art it celebrates—an outward expression of the creativity the Gallery seeks to inspire.
Every donation, every seat, and every auction bid goes directly toward shaping Singapore’s cultural legacy. And with a 250% tax deduction for contributions, the Gala offers not just a moment of celebration but a lasting investment in the nation’s creative future.
A Decade of Imagination
As Singapore celebrates SG60 and the Gallery marks a decade of artistry, imagination becomes more than a theme—it becomes a call to action. The Gallery Gala 2025 is not just about raising funds; it is about raising possibilities, ensuring that art continues to inspire, challenge, and transform lives for generations to come.
Because in the end, imagination is not just what we see in the galleries—it is what we dare to create together.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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