99 years is presented by independent arts platform Digital Art Week Asia (DAWA) and will be held in the historically significant Air Raid Shelter in the Tiong Bahru neighbourhood of Singapore. This new media arts exhibition examines the reflective and contemplative theme of the temporal nature of life through the various artistic practices presented.
The exhibition’s title has a double meaning; in some countries, the longest practical term of a leasehold property is 99-years without it being considered perpetual. In contrast, the number 9 is considered auspicious in some cultures and has the same sound for the word long-lasting or eternity – an interesting juxtaposition when contextualised in this exhibition.
The Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter is Singapore’s only surviving pre-war civilian shelter built in the 1930s. According to a press report dated 28 June 1939, this shelter was intended as a covered playing ground for children in normal times, but in times of emergency, it could readily be converted into an effective air raid shelter. In the twentieth century, continuing into the 1980s, Singapore had an active brick manufacturing industry and bricks by the now defunct Alexandra Brickworks can be found throughout the interior of the shelter amongst other relics. The shelter is generally closed to the public and this is a unique opportunity to experience a piece of Singapore’s history.
Venue: Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter, inside the BMTE 13 CARPARK, access via Block 78 Moh Guan Terrace or Block 79 Chay Yan Street
Admission: By registration only! Register HERE
When: 19 - 26 Jan 2026,
