Art in public spaces is increasingly viewed from the perspective of placemaking, a holistic approach which engages the diverse functions of a space, and attends closely to spaces in everyday life. As a professional practice it integrates landscape architecture, urban planning and cultural management. This book documents a major public art commission in Singapore, featuring works by artists Dan Graham, Zul Mahmod, Tomás Saraceno, and Yinka Shonibare CBE (RA), situated in a business park. The project, and the resulting book, is a unique collaboration between NTU Centre for Contemporary Art Singapore, part of Nanyang Technological University, and Mapletree Investments Pte Ltd, a Singaporean state-owned property developer with global operations.
The multiple points of view that must be reconciled to create successful public spaces are comprehensively represented in conversations with the artists, reflective essays from the curators, and an interview with the Chairman of Mapletree Investments. The commissioned works draw upon regional histories as well as urban politics while the commissioner presents the perspective of the corporation on the role that art can play in public education and social corporate investment.
Ute Meta Bauer is a curator of exhibitions and presentations, and the founding director, NTU Centre for Contemporary Art Singapore, School of Art, Design and Media.
Never has art in the public realm been more important than at this moment, when the global pandemic has thrown a spotlight on the importance of having an essential store of cultural capital in every neighbourhood. The dazzling stature of the artists involved and the sparkling reputations of the editors and artist contributors make Culture City. Culture Scape. a must-have contribution to this vital discussion– LEWIS BIGGS OBE, CHAIRMAN, INSTITUTE FOR PUBLIC ART
