As the Asian art scene continues to flourish, 2024 promises to be an exceptional year for contemporary art lovers. From the powerful works of Miwa Komatsu in Japan to Olafur Eliasson’s first major solo exhibition in Southeast Asia, here are standout shows that discerning art aficionados should not miss.
Olafur Eliasson: Your Curious Journey at Singapore Art Museum
Dates & Location: Singapore Art Museum, now till 22 September 2024
Olafur Eliasson’s much-anticipated exhibition, Your Curious Journey, marks the artist’s first major solo show in Southeast Asia. Eliasson, known for his immersive installations that blend art, science, as well as environmental activism, will showcase a range of works that challenge our perceptions of the natural world.
From shimmering rainbows to swirling mists, short of bringing icebergs from the fjords from Greeland which he is known for in some of his art installations, Eliasson’s works transform ephemeral phenomena into tangible experiences. Highlights of the exhibition include Beauty (1993), which conjures rainbows from mist, and The Glacier Melt Series 1999/2019, a poignant reflection on climate change. For the environmentally conscious viewer, Eliasson’s commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of his traveling exhibition adds another layer of relevance and urgency to the experience.
The exhibition will continue its journey across Asia, with stops in New Zealand, Taiwan, Indonesia and the Philippines, each venue adding its unique cultural context to Eliasson’s work.
Miwa Komatsu at the “Zipangu: Contemporary Artists Who Ran Through the Heisei Era” Exhibition
Dates & Locations: Saga Prefectural Museum of Art, Saga (24 August – 20 October 2024) and Hiroshima Museum of Art, Hiroshima (2 November – 22 December 2024)
The “Zipangu” exhibition is set to be a landmark event, gathering some of Japan’s most celebrated contemporary artists who have defined the Heisei era. Among these luminaries is Miwa Komatsu, whose work is a dynamic fusion of spirituality, mythology, and modernity. Known for her vibrant and expressive guardian spirit paintings, Komatsu’s pieces evoke a deep connection to Japanese folklore while speaking to contemporary themes.
Directed by Sueo Mizuma, “Zipangu” also features giants like Takashi Murakami and Yoshitomo Nara, will provide a rare opportunity to reflect on the cultural shifts from the Heisei to the Reiwa era through the lens of art. The complexity and diversity of the works on display will offer viewers an insightful journey into the heart of modern Japanese creativity.
Art Jakarta
Dates & Location: JIEXPO Kemayoran, 4 – 6 October 2024
Art Jakarta has solidified its place as Indonesia’s premier art fair and one of the most significant events in Southeast Asia. Showcasing a carefully curated selection of contemporary art from both emerging and established artists, the 2024 edition promises to be a highlight in the region’s art calendar.
This year, Art Jakarta continues to expand its reach with new galleries from across Asia, featuring works that push boundaries and challenge conventions. For the discerning art collector or enthusiast, this fair offers a unique chance to engage with cutting-edge art in a dynamic and diverse setting. From thought-provoking installations to meticulously crafted paintings, Art Jakarta reflects the vibrancy and depth of the Indonesian and broader Asian art scenes.
These three exhibitions represent the pinnacle of contemporary art in Asia for 2024. Whether you’re captivated by the spiritual energy of Miwa Komatsu’s paintings, intrigued by Singapore’s vibrant gallery scene, or moved by Olafur Eliasson’s environmental focus, each show offers a unique opportunity to engage with the art world’s most pressing and beautiful expressions. For the discerning art lover, these events are not to be missed.
Step Into Gold: Gustav Klimt’s Art Goes Immersive
Dates and location: 6 December 2024 to June 205, Sports Hub Library, Kallang Wave Mall
Get ready for a dazzling journey into the golden world of Gustav Klimt! Starting December 6, “Falling in Gold“ transforms Singapore’s Sports Hub Library into an interactive art wonderland. Explore Klimt’s masterpieces like never before through VR, AI-powered portrait stations and 360° projections that envelop you in his iconic style.
This isn’t just an exhibition—it’s an experience. From The Kiss to Judith, immerse yourself in seven stunning rooms of art-meets-technology brilliance, brought to life by world-renowned creatives like Dirty Monitor. Perfect for families, art lovers and curious minds alike, the event bridges history and modern innovation in spectacular fashion.
(Editor’s note, 6 December: Added the new Gustav Klimt show)
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