If you’re clueless as to how you should behave appropriately at an Art festival or exhibition, you’re certainly not alone.
It’s absolutely fine if you do not know how to act or what to say at certain art installations because we’ve come up with some fool proof steps that you can apply at any art festival or exhibition.
1. Nod (But Not Too Fervently) At Every Installation
Sometimes, the artist statements can be too cheem for the layman, and you’re just not able to fully comprehend what the artist is trying to convey.
But you don’t want people to know that you don’t know. So you pretend and you nod.
One of the most stunning installations is the Flowers And People – Dark interactive installation at National Gallery Singapore. The installation changes with every movement that visitors make. Each visual you see can never be replicated and is completely unique
2. Do The “Steve Jobs”
No, not invent the iPhone. You know that thing he does where he rubs his thumb and index finger in an inquisitive fashion?
Lai we show you.
This technique will be applicable in The House Is Crumbling sculptural installation, where visitors can interact and create different structures using the moveable pillows.
3. Use Words Like “Nuance” A Lot
To look like you know your stuff, you have to speak in their language.
For optimal effect, do this in an art exhibition where everything is quieter, like the Colours Of Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Musée d’Orsay exhibition at the Gallery.
This weekend and next, National Gallery Singapore’s opening hours will be extended and admission is FREE for all exhibitions including Century of Light which features Colours of Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Musée d’Orsay, and Between Worlds: Raden Saleh and Juan Luna.
4. Bring Up And Mention Any Art Experience You’ve Had
The good thing about receiving your education in Singapore, is that Arts & Crafts is a subject in Primary school. And for most people, that is probably the only time they did anything remotely “artsy”.
So use it. “Wah I remember when I was doing my graduation project and I had to create something similar to this. It was damn tough. Legit.”
If any of your friends decide to call your bluff, ignore them and move on. Life’s too short.
An interesting installation is the A Stitch In Time exhibit at the National Gallery Singapore, where members of the public stitched and sewed their names, pictures, poems, and personal keepsakes on to a large piece of white cloth.
5. Bring A Friend Who Can “Art” And Let Them Do The Talking
If you don’t know what to say, say nothing. Let your friend do the talking. If you don’t understand something, get them to explain.
But then again, you’re at an art festival, why are you “studying” the pieces?
Go enjoy yourself!
Disconnect and immerse yourself in Walk, Walk, Walk: Search, Deviate, Reunite exhibit.
It’s a labyrinth with virtual projections of different landscapes such as a bamboo forest, wheat field and cherry blossom forest, as well as strangely catchy music that we cannot get enough of.
Light To Night Festival 2018: Colour Sensations is on from 19 January to 28 January 2018 at National Gallery Singapore and around the Civic District.
Mai tu liao, bring your friends and family down to the Light To Night Festival for a blinding good time!
Light To Night Festival 2018: Colour Sensations
Venue: Civic District
Date: 19 – 28 Jan 2018
Website: www.lighttonight.sg | #LightToNightSG
This article is written in collaboration with National Gallery Singapore.
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(Header Image Source: DiscoverSG)
