8 Awesome Valentine’s Day Dinner And Gift Ideas For A Truly Special Date

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and with it comes another opportunity to appreciate our partners—after all, we can never do it enough. It’s a time to celebrate love, to forgive past quarrels, to thank, and to simply enjoy the presence of one another.
Every couple has their own Valentine’s day traditions. Some of us like to pamper our partners’ with a fancy meal, some of us like to exchange gifts, and for some of us, it’s just another day—aside from the fact that there are loving couples everywhere you look.
If you’re still at a loss as to what to do with your special guy or girl this Valentine’s day, here are some places you can consider for your dining, outfit and gifting needs!
1. Romantic Dinner
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Guys, if you want to look sharp on V-Day, why not make a stop at T.M.Lewin. With sales of up to 70% off, you might as well get your Chinese New Year shopping done there too!
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And ladies, we haven’t missed you out. Wang Edition is having a massive price slash on its clothing as well, so you’re sure to walk away with a stylish ensemble yourself!
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Remember, at the end of the day, Valentine’s day is about spending time with the one you love. Whether you go to a fancy restaurant or just want to take a walk down the festively dressed Orchard Road, what makes the occasion special is the company of each other.
So, don’t stress over where to eat, what to wear, and what to give the guy or girl you love. As long as it comes straight from your heart, your partner is sure to appreciate it!
This season, Orchard Central wants to treat all its shoppers (single or attached) to some amazing giveaways!
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Please visit Best Brunch Spots In Singapore For The Non-Early Risers
6 Obvious Ways To Impress Your Future In-Laws This Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year is just around the corner and you know what that means – home visits, lots of red packets and even more food! If you’re seeing someone, CNY will also probably be the time that you visit your significant other’s parents. Don’t get the jitters because we’ve got 6 great ways to impress the future in-laws this Lunar New Year.
1) Wear Red To Impress
Okay, this one is easy.
Red, red, and MORE red right? Duh.
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It’s a sure win colour. You’ll definitely be well-received if you look like a red ang pao walking through their doors bringing good luck to their family.
2) Bring A Gift
Bring a pair of Mandarin Oranges. That will be obviously expected of you.
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If you want to make a super impression, bring awesome gifts or food, like…
a Golden Pineapple Cake
or
a huge Huat Tart
(both from Goodwood Park Hotel)
or a Yu Sheng, so you can Lou Hei together!
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We bet they’ll love you after this.
3) Offer To Help
There’s always so much to do and so little help during Chinese New Year.
If your partner’s family is hosting a huge gathering, offer to take out the trash, serve food to relatives, and look useful all the time.
You’ll get compliments in no time!
If you’re invited for an exclusive meeting (just your partner’s immediate family), volunteer to help in other ways – scoop the rice, wash the dishes, and be gentlemanly. You’ll ace the meeting, we promise.
4) Know The Taboos And Superstitions And Avoid Them
We know – there are just SO many Chinese taboos to avoid!
No washing your hair because you’re washing away your good luck, no sweeping the floor because you’re sweeping away your family’s good luck, and the list goes on…
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These superstitions are amusing but let’s not take any chances with the future in-laws.
The most applicable taboo this Chinese New Year will probably revolve around meal times.
Well, we all know not to stick our chopsticks in rice because it resembles offerings. But did you know that while eating fish, you should not break any of the fish bones?
There are so many taboos and superstitions, it’s best to check with your other half, so you know what matters to their family.
5) Get Ready To Talk & Interact
We’ll let you in on a secret.
Everyone’s favourite topic is themselves.
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So, get rid of all those awkward moments with his/her relatives by asking them about themselves! They’ll be talking non-stop like a machine gun. Just nod your head in approval and listen, in case they ask for your opinion.
6) Lastly, Be Yourself
So cliche but so true!
You shouldn’t claim to be knowledgable about American or Chinese politics just because your partner’s father is.
He’ll see through your lies and lack of knowledge in no time. Better to keep quiet and nod your head than speak and show you’re a fool.
Let your own personality and interest shine through instead.
Wrapping up!
Chinese New Year can be a great opportunity to meet the future in-laws because everyone’s cheerful and happy.
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While certain traditions should be adhered to and certain actions should be avoided, do not let them intimidate you. Grab a pair of oranges and put on a smile while you take your relationship to the next level and meet the parents.
If your boyfriend or girlfriend is meeting your parents, don’t forget to share this with them.
Also, read Torikin: Where You Can Indulge In A Uni Hotpot Brimming With Seafood
McDonald’s Puts The Fun Back Into CNY With New Golden Prosperity Burger, Cute Red Packets & Orange Bags!

Reunion dinners are great: You get to spend time with the family, eat great food, and there’s enough leftovers for a whole week. Unfortunately, with the outrageous prices of ingredients, and the long tedious hours of preparations, cooking, and cleaning, hosting a successful reunion dinner can be just so exhausting.
Scouting for places to have the reunion dinner will make you want to pull your hair out. Well, we’ve got a good suggestion. This place will tick all your boxes. Delectable meaningful food, check. Awesome CNY freebies, check. Aircon and great service, you’ve got it.
The place is none other than…McDonald’s! This year, the McDonald’s menu AND the freebies are so awesome, you’ll be tempted to just suggest this preposterous but oh-so-possible idea of having your family’s reunion dinner there!
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The Golden Prosperity Burger
Typically, McDonald’s Prosperity Burger offers a perfect harmony of juicy beef, signature black pepper sauce and slivered onions, all in one sesame seed bun.
This year, McDonald’s new Golden Prosperity Burger comes with a bonus golden, crunchy hashbrown. Time for some extra crunching as you bite into this deliciously juicy burger!
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Irresistible Sides
To complete your meal, order Prosperity Twister Fries and some sweet BBQ Drumlets.
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For dessert, something special has been planned. A Gula Melaka McFlurry® with Rainbow Bites!
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Enjoy the velvety vanilla soft serve swirled with yummy Gula Melaka and crunchy rainbow bites. Yes – it’s truly love at first bite.
Ang Pao Packets & Orange Bags
Still not convinced? With every purchase of a Golden Prosperity extra value meal participating McDonald’s restaurants or via McDelivery, you’ll receive a set of 6 Ang Pao Packets! *Designs may vary.
For $5, you’ll get a super adorable orange bag. These limited edition designs are adorable and useful for the coming week of visitations.
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Rather than prepare Bok Choy, Fa Gao, chicken and fish because they symbolise prosperity, why not simply have your reunion dinner with McDonald’s Golden Prosperity Meal? If you’re not keen to head on out, just call McDelivery!
So bring your whole family down to the nearest McDonald’s restaurant, or order with McDelivery to eat in the comforts of your own home. Either way, you can enjoy delicious food at great prices, all while avoiding the time-consuming effort of preparing the Reunion Dinner.
Now you can put your full attention on what really matters this CNY: Spending time with your family.
McDonald’s Chinese New Year 2017
Must-try: Golden Prosperity Burger, BBQ Drumlets, Gula Melaka McFlurry with Rainbow Bites
Must-have: Orange bags and red packets
Date: From 12 January, while stocks last
Information on Orange Bags & Ang Pao Packets
The Prosperity orange bags come in two designs – French Fries and McCafe Frappe. They’re available for purchase at $5 each with any order made via McDelivery and over the McCafe counters. Limited to one orange bag per transaction.
The red packets are available in four designs; French Fries, Big Mac, Sundae, McCafe Frappe. You’ll get a free pack of six with every purchase of a Golden Prosperity Burger Extra Value Meal at all participating McDonald’s restaurants and via McDelivery. Red packet Sundae design is only available at restaurants, while the McCafe Frappe design is only available via McDelivery. However depending on stock availability, designs may be vary. Restaurants not participating are branches at KK Hospital, Parklane Shopping Mall, Lucky Chinatown Point, and Tampines Interchange Kiosk.
Also, read 10 Activities To Do During Chinese New Year That Doesn’t Involve Empty Malls
Torikin: Where You Can Indulge In A Uni Hotpot Brimming With Seafood

If you’re a fan of Torikin‘s collagen infused chicken hotpot then you’ll be glad to know that another luxury hotpot has already made it’s way to Torikin’s doors (and our hearts). Make way for the Uni Hotpot!
The taste of Fukuoka in a dish
To commemorate their second anniversary and also, to welcome the Lunar New Year, Torikin has introduced yet another Fukuoka specialty to our sunny shores: Uni Hotpot.
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One of the first in Singapore, the Uni Hotpot ($86.90 per pax) not only tastes great but is also chock full of healthy goodness.
Sea urchin is extremely rich in protein, vitamins and dietary fibre.
Shipped all the way from Japan, you can expect great quality and quantity of Uni in your hotpot. Uni lovers, we bet you’re grinning now!
Hooked on seafood
You’ll get more bang for your buck because although Uni is the star of the show, there’ll be premium seafood like salmon, tuna, prawns and scallops served as well.
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The broth is a mix of all good things from the sea: the rich essence of Uni, sweet bonito stock and an abundance of seafood to create a wonderful symphony of flavours.
Be sure to dip the ingredients shabu-shabu style for the full experience. Oishi!
Side Dishes
Not sure what to do with the leftover broth? Don’t let it go to waste! Pour some into a bowl of rice and enjoy a comforting bowl of porridge.
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Now, who said porridge is boring?
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Feeling like having more than just seafood?
Torikin also serves sides like Oita Chicken Tempura ($14.80), Hakata-styled Gyoza ($16.90), and of course their famous Mitzutaki ($36.90 per pax).
Torikin
Touting themselves as a casual dining space that serves up authentic Japanese food with a local twist, it’s obvious why Torikin is popular with locals and expats alike.
Our ambassador, Victoria, visited Torikin and tried the Uni Hotpot. Here’s her experience!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BOEa_pSBx8Y/?taken-by=victoinette
We can totally see the Uni Hotpot selling out so do us a favour and have it as soon as you can (only limited portions are available per day).
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With Chinese New Year coming up, treat your friends and family to something a little different this year. With it’s orange and red coloured food and ingredients like fish and prawn, it’s easy to see why the Uni Hotpot is the perfect choice for a night of feasting during this time of year.
We know you’ll definitely not regret it!
Torikin
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 6pm -11pm; Saturday to Sunday 12pm-3pm, 6pm-11pm
Address: 557 Bukit Timah Road, #01-14/16, Singapore 269694
Tel: 64655908
Facebook here
Also, read This Chinese New Year, Let’s Not Forget About The Less Fortunate
10 Activities To Do During Chinese New Year That Doesn’t Involve Empty Malls

Chinese New Year is no doubt a joyous occasion that most look forward to every year. This festive period usually encompasses several days of collecting red packets, munching on delectable new year goodies, buying new clothes and visiting friends’ and relatives’ homes for even more red packets!
However, we all know that there are only that many red packets to be collected and that many homes to visit. Additionally, most shopping malls are typically closed during Chinese New Year. This usually means watching endless re-runs of hilarious Stephen Chow’s comedies while snacking away on those love letters and pineapple tarts.
We are all too familiar with this rather “mundane” way of spending the Lunar New Year. Besides all the non-stop eating and talking, here are 10 activities to do during Chinese New Year that doesn’t involve empty malls!
1. Rooster In The New Year At Jurong Bird Park!
No better way to usher in the Year of the Rooster than at the bird paradise itself – Jurong Bird Park!
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Keen to know what is in store for you for the year ahead? Go on a zoo-diac trail at Singapore Zoo to shed some light on what to expect this Rooster Year based on your zodiac animal!
[caption id="attachment_21455" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] All the munching of delicious Chinese New Year goodies and stomach-filling steamboats are bound to leave you feeling bloated and chubby. Take this chance to burn off some of those unwanted calories by hitting the gym! [caption id="attachment_21453" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Ever wondered what goes on behind those massive iron gates of our President’s official residence, the Istana? [caption id="attachment_21456" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Look forward to this year’s 31st edition of the River Hongbao Festival, which will feature an elaborately-decorated heart-shaped design entrance walkaway to usher in the Year of the Rooster! Furthermore, be dazzled by the spectacular lantern displays all around the area. To top it off, you can expect a delightful spectacle of fireworks and lasers shows at 9pm every night. [caption id="attachment_21457" align="aligncenter" width="4256"] We cannot guarantee that the S.E.A Aquarium will be less crowded than usual given that it will be a long weekend holiday. However, we are pretty sure that the numerous species of marine animals here as well as the massive viewing panel will certainly provide an amazing and fascinating time as opposed to simply staying at home! [caption id="attachment_21458" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Soak in the spring beauty of floral displays while enjoying the Chinese New Year festivities at Gardens By The Bay! [caption id="attachment_21574" align="aligncenter" width="2096"] Besides admiring the floral displays at the flower dome, there are also several engaging activities that you and the entire family could participate in. Their Spring Surprise 2017 offers an array of entertaining traditional performances as well as the biggest ever LED Phoenix making its debut appearance here in Singapore. If you absolutely have to stay indoors this Chinese New Year and those Stephen Chow comedies are starting to get less comical, there are still other ways to maximise this festive holidays – such as hosting a game night! [caption id="attachment_21462" align="aligncenter" width="1027"] Credit: 3. Hit The Gym And Work Off Those CNY Goodies
Credit: , Evolve MMA, local parks and reservoirs
4. Visit The Green Lawns Of The Istana
Credit: 5. Be Right At The Heart Of Festivities At River Hongbao 2017
Credit: 6. Gong SEA Fa Cai At S.E.A Aquarium
Credit: 7. Check Out The Floral Displays And Performances At Gardens By The Bay
Credit: Gardens by the Bay[/caption]
Credit: 8. Plan A Mahjong or Blackjack Night
Credit: Credit: Credit: 9 Incredible Yu Sheng To Toss So You Get Good Luck In The Year Of The Rooster
7 Classy and Cheap Date-Night Activities in Singapore This January

With the end of year festivities well out of the way, we can all take solace in that our lives can finally return to normalcy.
After emptying the bank for all those Christmas presents and New Year parties, here’s a guide on life hacking date-night activities this January without burning a hole in the pocket.
Here are seven classy date-night ideas that will go easy on the wallet.
1. ART AFTER DARK

Held at the Gillman Barracks, Art After Dark is a highlight of Singapore Art Week which combines contemporary art exhibitions, live music performances and amazing food vendors in one evening.
The event will also see the launch of LOCK ROUTE, an outdoor public art showcase featuring works in the form of murals, sculptures and installations by popular and emerging local artists.
This year, local musicians Charlie Lim, Riot !n Magenta and .gif will make an appearance, accompanied by pop-up food booths from Park Bench Deli and Gattopardo.
When: 13 January 2017, 7pm till late
Where: Gillman Barracks
Price: Free
2. NASA: A HUMAN ADVENTURE
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Treat your partner to an experience that is out of this world at NASA: A Human Adventure. The exhibition is said to be the most comprehensive in showcasing space flights throughout history, with artifacts from the U.S. and Soviet Union space programs.
The public guided tours are in either English or Mandarin where participants can learn about some of the most extraordinary innovations in space technology and scientific achievements in human history.
The exhibition runs all the way until March and will be a great way to start the New Year by learning about the human endeavour in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
When: Daily until 19 March 2017
Where: ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands
Price: S$15-19 (Singaporeans and PR), S$20-25 (Foreigners)
3. ALIWAL URBAN ART FESTIVAL
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In conjunction with Singapore Art Week, the Aliwal Urban Art Festival is an annual event held to celebrate the wonderful world of street art highlighting the talents of local urban artists, dancers, skateboarders and musicians.
Visitors can learn about the history of urban art in Singapore while ‘The Writers Bench’ will see urban artists collaborating to work on a 12-metre long wall.
There will be live performances from local indie bands Ant-Men and Disco Hue. Skateboarding enthusiasts can also head down to the Aliwal Car Park to witness ‘The Asphalt Challenge’, a skill competition featuring Singapore’s top skateboarders.
When: 14 January 2017, 5pm till late
Where: Aliwal Arts Centre
Price: Free
4. FULLERTON MONUMENT TOUR
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While all Singaporeans will recognize the iconic Fullerton Hotel, many may be unfamiliar with its history. Amidst an ever-transforming city landscape in Singapore’s CBD, The Fullerton Hotel has remained a constant, witnessing some of Singapore’s history moments.
This guided tour will reset the clocks to 1928, taking you in a journey through time from the very beginnings of the Fullerton Building to when it hosted the General Post Office, became an elite British club and exquisite hotel.
Participants will get a glimpse of exclusive preserved areas of the building with its rich history and monumental significance of Singapore’s past. The tour ends with a “Heritage” local breakfast in the hotel courtyard.
When: 22 January 2017
Where: The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
Price: The Istana Singapore[/caption]
Get a unique glimpse of the Istana this January. Held during the Istana Chinese New Year Open House, this guided walk will showcase the Istana’s rich and diverse flora and fauna.
The Istana estate is a vast parkland of greenery, with areas such as The Swan Pond, The Lawn, Japanese Garden, The Spice Terrace and The Grove.
The walk is conducted on an hourly basis between 10am to 4pm, and is open to the general public.
When: 29 January 2017
Where: The Istana
Price: $4 (Singaporeans and PR), $10 (Foreigners)
6. STORY OF THE FOREST
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Story of the Forest is an immersive installation inspired by the William Farquhar Collection of Natural History Drawings at the National Museum of Singapore.
The exhibition takes 69 drawings from the prized collection and breathes life into them through wide-scaping displays. There is also an app that will enhance your visit, making the exhibition an interactive one for all to enjoy.
The installation was setup by teamLab, the same people behind Future World, the permanent exhibition at the ArtScience Museum.
When: Daily, 10am to 7pm
Where: National Museum of Singapore
Price: Free (Singaporeans and PR)
7. ARTWALK LITTLE INDIA
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From January 12 to 17, ARTWALK Little India returns with its third edition to liven up the Little India precinct, showcasing the area’s rich tradition through a variety of arts and culture.
Throughout the week, visitors can immerse themselves in art installations and live performances that celebrate the heritage of Little India. This year’s theme is Your Path To Remember, giving visitors a nostalgic journey of stories and memories through the medium of the arts.
The initiative is a collaboration between LASALLE College of the Arts and Singapore Tourism Board.
When: 12 to 17 January 2017
Where: Little India
Price: Free
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For more updates and listings of events for your date-night activities, pick up your free copy of this month’s A List Singapore from City Hall, Raffles Place, Tampines and Jurong East SMRT stations. Alternatively, you can check out A List Singapore’s The Playbook.
Also, read Dying Art Culture? Nope. Here’s What To Expect During Singapore Art Week 2017
7 Quiet Countries That Are Quickly Stealing The Hearts Of True Adventurers

Where should you head to this 2017? Keen to catch the ruggedness of a rugby match? Or simply looking to immerse yourself in a new cultural experience and enjoy a superb digital detox? Perhaps the usual travel destinations like Thailand, Japan, and Korea are a little too ordinary for you? Here, we bring you a list of 7 quiet and unexpected countries that are quickly stealing the hearts of true adventurers – these places will definitely have to be in your 2017 travel bucket list!
1. Travel to Bermuda
This British island territory of Bermuda is known for its pink-sand beaches and breezy island life.
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However, Mongolia still retains its ruggedness and an immersion in its nomadic culture is an absolute must. You can sleep in a herder’s ger or even help round up the sheep. Additionally, the locals are known to be extremely hospitable – where else do you find people opening up their “doors” to strangers?
4. Russia
As Russia gears up to host the much-anticipated FIFA World Cup in 2018, it is set to show the world what it can offer as the world’s largest nation.
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Of course, the best of Russia can be seen from the window of the legendary Trans-Siberian train. Additionally, a trip to Russia will not be complete without catching one of its world-class ballet performances. Russia certainly offers some magnificent sights if you give it a chance!
5. Vietnam
Vietnam has seen a rapidly-growing tourism industry in recent years.
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Naturally, the Fins will want to celebrate their centenary with gusto in every region.
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With al fresco concerts to dining festivals and numerous exhibitions, expect a celebratory atmosphere all year round!
Furthermore, this Nordic country will also be playing host to the World Figure Skating Championships as well as the Nordic World Ski Championships this year. There is certainly no better time to explore Finland’s unique culture and beautiful landscapes!
7. Myanmar
Formerly known as Burma, the lifting of British influence on Myanmar has made this country a magnet for tourists.
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Also, read 7 Nearby Travel Destinations To Consider For Your 2017 Long Weekends
Dying Art Culture? Nope. Here’s What To Expect During Singapore Art Week 2017

Singapore is often lamented for being a concrete jungle, lacking in arts and culture. To all the naysayers out there, Singapore Art Week 2017 will reveal our Little Red Dot’s big artistic accomplishments!
From 11 to 22 January 2017, explore art exhibitions, festivals and tours located at various places such as Little India, Gillman Barracks and Far East Plaza.
With over 90 different activities happening during Singapore Art Week 2017, trying to catch each one might be tough.
Here’s our pick of the top 10 exhibitions, festivals and activities you must not miss for an unforgettable local art and culture experience.
Art After Dark at Gillman Barracks
An annual crowd favourite, Art After Dark at Gillman Barracks will be back this year on 13th January, from 7pm to 11pm.
Expect a night of incredible talent with live music acts, new exhibits by the Gillman Barracks art tenants and galleries, irresistible F&B pop-ups, and the unveiling of Gillman Barrack’s public art project!
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One such exhibit is the Supermama’s Design New Standard, featuring a precious collection of “omiyage”, or contemporary giftware, made by Singaporean and Japanese designers and craftmakers.
Art After Dark x SAW2017
13 Jan 2017, 7pm till late
Gillman Barracks, 9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937
Weblink
Contemporary Printmaking Festival
Discover the intricate art of printmaking at the Contemporary Printmaking Festival 2017.
Featuring local printmakers such as PHUNK and the Gentlemen’s Press, uncover a weekend of printmaking heaven.
You can even look forward to a Print Your Own Selfie workshop with Jackson Tan from PHUNK.
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Learn how to make silkscreen, letterpress and traditional Intaglio printing from printmakers themselves at live demonstrations and printing workshops.
Contemporary Printmaking Festival 2017
11 – 22 Jan
Open plaza at Capitol Piazza, 13 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178905
Weblink
Aliwal Urban Art Festival
Soak in the cool atmosphere that accompanies Street Culture at the annual Aliwal Urban Art Festival.
Get ready to be wowed by impressive and renowned talent present at the festival, such as local bands Tomgirl, Urban Artists, and RSCLS!
Here’s what you can expect from a single night at Aliwal Urban Art Festival 2017: Hip Hop Block Parties, Urban Art faceoffs, Live Performances by Poptart, Forests, and Ant-men, live DJ performances, Skateboarding challenges and even Indigoism’s Barter Market!
Aliwal Urban Art Festival
14 Jan, 5pm till late
Aliwal Arts Centre, 28 Aliwal Street, Singapore 199918
Weblink
State of Motion 2017: Through Stranger Eyes
For this activity, audiences will be presented with feature films where Singapore made an appearance.
While watching the films, you’ll be seeing the transformation of Singapore through strangers’ eyes.
Starting from the Pavilion at the National Library, audiences will be taken on a 3-hour bus tour to visit the exact locations seen in the films.
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Site-specific artwork and works by Amanda Lee Koe, The Observatory, and more will be present at each location to further enhance the experience.
Afterwards, audiences can attend the talks and panel discussions held to get a deeper understanding of the appearance of Singapore in cinema.
Register for tickets
6 Jan – 5 Feb, 10am – 9pm daily (excluding PH)
The Plaza, National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street, Singapore 188064
Coupled with her book launch at One East Asia Gallery, she will be baring all with personal writings, news articles, and photographic work in chronological order.
Come for the tongue-in-cheek, colloquially funny artworks, and stay for the honest sharing of her growth and thought processes behind her creations.
RSVP now at +65 6737 1819 or [email protected] for the opening at 6:30pm.
Greetings from Singapore
10 – 31 Jan, 12 – 7pm
One East Asia Gallery, 15 Scotts Road, #09-03 Thong Teck Building, Singapore 228218
Weblink
Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre
Made from over 14,000 Swarovski crystals, with eight wing-like kinetic chandeliers (each 1.2m long), and accentuated by LED light, homegrown artist Suzann Victor took 2 years to complete this masterpiece.
A perfect representation of the National Museum of Singapore’s authentic 19th-century neo-Palladian architecture melding with the modern glass wing, the artwork was designed to reflect light that shines through the glass windows.
They sway to 8 different swinging patterns as well, and can even form the shape of a dragon due to the customised electromagnets within.
No Regrets For Our Youth
Created by Singapore art collective DXXXXD, No Regrets For Our Youth explores the obsession with #fitspo and gym life that has proliferated in our society. In an attempt to understand the relationship one has with their body as a health or vanity focus, DXXXXD has transformed Music Studio 1 in Aliwal Arts Centre into an artistic jungle gym. This exhibit will feature sculptures in the form of common gym equipment, and may even offer bodybuilding and wrestling workshops. No Regrets For Our Youth Running for the 3rd year in a row, ARTWALK Little India is a public art project set in Little India. Set to the theme of Your Path To Remember, audiences this year are encouraged to walk through Little India and uncover the memories and stories of Singapore’s past. There’ll be live performances, retelling of folktales and mythologies, as well as mesmerising art installations. Art Stage Singapore
The leading Asian Art Fair, Art Stage Singapore connects art lovers from all over the world with the best of Asian Contemporary Art. The 7th edition this year, expect a plethora of artwork as there are over 20 galleries with art from 27 countries. Get your tickets Curated by Khairuddin Hori, this exhibition will showcase new commissions by artists such as Cleon Peterson, Zheng Lu and Oanh Phi Phi, as well as Singapore artists Gerald Leow and Sheryo+Yok. One of the renowned international artists featured is Kristen Berg, most known for her captivating works at Burning Man. For those of us who are unable to travel to Arizona annually for Burning Man, catch a glimpse of the experience with her sculptures at LOCK ROUTE from 13 Jan – 30 June at Gillman Barracks! LOCK ROUTE Just writing this compilation is making us excited for the launch of Singapore Art Week 2017! Best of all, a number of these art exhibitions and installations will be around for an extended period of time, perfect for those of us with busy schedules. With only 10 out of over 90 art and culture activities recommended in this article, we understand if you are feeling some FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)? Whether you would like to read up on the other 80 activities or plan your weekend around the art exhibitions, why not follow A List Singapore for an in-depth guide on Singapore Art Week 2017? As Singapore’s first full-fledged arts and culture guide, you can find comprehensive event listings from music to dance, visual arts to theatre, and literary to family activities. Besides event listings, you can also be updated with the arts and culture scene with their plethora of thought-provoking articles. With a Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and even a Youtube page, you can follow A List Singapore on all your favourite platforms and never fear missing out on the local art scene. If you love the smell of a fresh magazine, keep a look out on their social media channels for when their January hard copy issue will be distributed at SMRT Stations island-wide! This Singapore Art Week, embark on a meaningful and reflective journey as you appreciate the arts and culture scene. The amazing talent in our sunny island may just wow you. Also, read Into The Looking Glass: A Local Exhibition You Must Not Miss!
12 Jan – 12 Feb, 11am to 8pm daily.
Music Studio 1, Aliwal Arts Centre, 28 Aliwal Street, Singapore 199918
Weblink ARTWALK Little India
Image courtesy of LASELLE College of the Arts[/caption]
Water Dripping—Splashing, Zheng Lu. Image courtesy of Zheng Lu[/caption]
Nestscape by Thai Artist Mook[/caption]
12 – 14 Jan, 12pm – 8pm; 15 Jan, 11am – 6pm
Sands Expo & Convention Centre, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
Snake by Gerald Leow, featured at Singapore Art Museum’s front lawn in 2013[/caption]
Constellation of One, Kristen Berg. Photo courtesy of Kristen Berg[/caption]
13 Jan – 30 June
Gillman Barracks, 9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937
WeblinkA List Singapore – Your Guide To The Arts And Culture Scene In Singapore
Savvy Local’s Guide: Fill Your Calendar To 15 Jan With These Must-Not-Miss Events!

Rise and shine, peeps! It’s time to add another resolution to your list, “to make 2017 the greatest year ever” (if you haven’t already done so). In keeping with that, our calendars are fully marked till 15 January and we’re GOOD TO GO!
Calendar of Events (1 – 15 January 2017)
1. Singapore Art Week 2017
The fifth edition of Singapore Art Week is back with a dazzling array of installations ranging from visual treats, exhibitions, art workshops, to tours and performances.
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All this will be take place across art galleries, museums and exhibition spaces across the island.
Singapore Art Week 2017
When: 11 January 2017 – 22 January 2017
Where: Various venues
Explore: https://www.artweek.sg and Into The Looking Glass: A Local Exhibition You Must Not Miss!
2. Legend of the Moon 3D Musical
Known as the first 3D musical of its kind, the Legend of the Moon showcases the life, culture and art of the Dong people, a minority race in China.
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Usher in the year of the Rooster with a bang!
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Through theatre and visual art, this sexy yet serious art festival explores the profound relationship between art and skin, and examines the dynamics of culture and the thorny issue of xenophobia.
[caption id="attachment_20945" align="alignnone" width="960"] With its name derived from the Tamil term “pongu”, meaning to “boil over” or “overflow”, this Tamil harvest festival is traditionally celebrated from 14 – 16 January in India. [caption id="attachment_20949" align="alignnone" width="640"] [caption id="attachment_21028" align="alignnone" width="800"] If raw fish was never your thing, there’s no better time than now to learn how to DIY this Yu Sheng dish. What’s best is, vegans can dig in too. DIY Prosperity Yu Sheng With Vegan ‘Raw Fish’ Class Join throngs of devotees as they partake in a traditional kavadi ceremony [caption id="attachment_20955" align="alignnone" width="3456"] [caption id="attachment_20960" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Musician, poet and artist PJ Harvey started out two decades ago, earning numerous Grammy and Brit awards nominations along the way. That’s not all – the iconic master of all trades has also worked alongside Thom Yorke, Nick Cave, Björk and more. [caption id="attachment_21026" align="alignnone" width="752"] Stopping over in Singapore for her international tour, she and her band present music from her latest release The Hope Six Demolition Project. PJ Harvey In this fifth instalment of the Local Chef Showcase, pursue the legacy behind renowned Szechuan delicacies with 2-star Michelin chef Chen Kentaro. Michelin Guide Local Chef Showcase: Chen Kentaro Ready for a tipple or two, or heaven forbid, three? [caption id="attachment_21031" align="alignnone" width="650"] If you thought this was all, well… We’re right smack in the middle of the Singapore Biennale which winds up on 26 February. On top of that, Mulan the Musical is currently in full swing at the Resorts World Theatre till 5 February. Now, the countdown begins… Here’s to ticking off these unmissable activities on your bucket list! Header image credits: Blacklimosg Also, read Into The Looking Glass: A Local Exhibition You Must Not Miss! 5. Pongal Festival 2017
6. DIY Prosperity Yu Sheng With Vegan ‘Raw Fish’ Class
Eventbrite[/caption]
When: 14 January 2017, 10.30 am – 12 pm
Where: Mahota Commune, Kitchener Complex, Level 3, 809 French Road
Explore: Eventbrite – DIY Prosperity Yu Sheng with Vegan Raw Fish7. Simply Organic Brunch (Cooking Class Series)
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8. Thaipusam Festival 2017
9. Art Stage 2017
10. PJ Harvey (Mosaic Music Series 2017)
Esplanade Mosaic Music Series[/caption]
When: 13 January 2017, 8 pm – 9.15 pm
Where: Esplanade Theatre
Explore: Esplanade Mosaic Music Series 2017 – PJ Harvey 11. Michelin Guide Local Chef Showcase: Chen Kentaro
[caption id="attachment_21027" align="alignnone" width="720"] Michelin Guide SG[/caption]
When: 13 January 2017, 7 pm – 10 pm
Where: Shisen Hanten, 333 Orchard Road, Mandarin Orchard Singapore
Explore: Eventbrite – Michelin Guide Local Chef Showcase (Chen Kentaro)12. CNY Japanese Sake Warehouse Sale
Eventbrite – CNY Japanese Sake Warehouse Sale
Into The Looking Glass: A Local Exhibition You Must Not Miss!

If you haven’t heard, the Singapore Biennale is in town right now, as part of Singapore Art Week 2017!
From now till 26 February, grab your friends and family and attend this eye-opening arts exhibition. We visited Project Dreamcatchers 2016: Into The Looking Glass and it was a rewarding experience.
Project Dreamcatchers 2016: Into The Looking Glass
Project Dreamcatchers is an initiative to help youths with chronic illnesses express their aspirations through art. Despite the many odds these youths face, they soldier on and reveal their struggles through the art they produce.
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This year, the exhibition at the Singapore Biennale is called ‘Into The Looking Glass’. Aptly named, this exhibition invites visitors to see the world through the artists’ eyes. ‘Into The Looking Glass’ certainly caught our eyes with its display of vulnerability and invitations to connect with its viewers.
Here are four reasons why you should drop by!
Support Local Artists
These budding local artists are partnered with mentors who guide and help them through the production of their art pieces.
Mentors include local artists Samantha Lo, Ho Wai Kit, Noor Iskandar and Tan Jia Hui, who worked closely with the youths to bring their messages to life through art.
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Sparked by the initial question of what they wish to tell the public, these artworks are personal messages from the youths.
A Stunning Array of Unique Artwork
The artists and youths used mixed mediums and materials ranging from mirrors to plants. They were chosen carefully to best represent the artist’s journey and message, and to elicit the desired response from the viewer.
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While touching the artwork is not permitted, viewers can interact with the artworks in different ways, like seeing themselves in the reflections of Rayna’s art piece.
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From this, we can better experience and appreciate the depiction of the artists’ personal journey through life.
Touching Stories
Accompanying each art piece is a personal message by the artist about the inspiration behind their artwork.
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Titled ‘Imperfect’, this plywood art piece was painted over with acrylic paint, and the words were scratched out using pigment ink.
Her words of truth, as of those of the other artists, come from a yearning to be heard, recognised and understood.
End Discrimination
Art is an expression of oneself, and a means throughout history of breaking down barriers. When we take the step to understand and look from the perspectives of these youths, we’re helping to end the discrimination they face.
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In this art piece, items essential to the artist are put together and held up. When light is projected on these items, a silhouette of a human heart is formed.
Syringes and tablets may not be our essential items, but Toh’s art piece reminds us that we’re all the same inside.
With ‘Into The Looking Glass’, visitors stand to appreciate and support the fight against the discrimination of our youths. Listen to their stories through their art and acknowledge the difficulties they face, and their creativity and presence.
In our ever-increasing world of connectivity, it is exhibitions like Into The Looking Glass that will truly connect us with others on a deeper level.
Disconnect from the bombardment of stories and listen to individual ones by our local youths and artists.
A List Singapore – Your Guide To The Arts And Culture Scene In Singapore
If this exhibition has ignited a desire in you to attend more of such arts and culture happenings in Singapore, why not follow A List Singapore?
As Singapore’s first full-fledged arts and culture guide, you can find comprehensive event listings from music to dance, visual arts to theatre, and literary to family activities. Besides event listings, you can also be updated to the arts and culture scene with their plethora of thought-provoking articles.
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Be in the know as they feature up-and-coming promising artists and the shakers and makers of the art industry.
For the latest arts & cultural events happening in Singapore, follow them on their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
If you love the smell of a fresh magazine, keep a look out on their social media channels for when their January hard copy issue will be distributed at SMRT Stations island-wide!
Take the step to explore the rich and rewarding art and culture scene in Singapore; you never know what you might learn and experience along the way!
Also, read 10 Places To Fly Your Drone For Amazing, Never Seen Before Photos Of Singapore!