Berny Tan, Meditations on Loss, 2014, Hand-painted yarn, thread, canvas, embroidery hoops, 32 x 32 cm each (Series of 3)

Liana Yang, what my pussy loves – hidey 01, 2013, Archival Photoprint in Diasec, 60 x 90cm, 3 + 1AP

A refurbished shophouse along Petain Road will open its doors to the public over 3 weekends. During this time, it will serve as an apt site for the contemplation & interrogation of the nature of the past – more specifically, a wistful view of the past.

The rare chance to survey the diversity of practices from over 20 of Singapore’s most exciting emerging voices in contemporary art within a single venue (& appreciate the exclusive residence’s architectural elegance) makes this a show not to be missed. From drawings to photography, installations to performance art, Repurposing Nostalgia promises discovery in every nook & corner.

Given the innate psychological need for stability, nostalgia offers an alluring coping mechanism in the face of ever-accelerating changes. The proliferation of nostalgia-oriented commercial enterprises as well as urgent questions about the past, our experience & relationship to it dominating Singapore’s artistic discourse are but responses to this oft-overwhelming situation.

Repurposing Nostalgia will showcase various artistic strategies in co-opting or challenging the nostalgic phenomenon. This diversity also reflects the how the show grew from ground up, with friends roping in friends or acquaintances through face-to-face meetings, texts, emails & social media.

Guided tours of the show will offer visitors a richer understanding of the works & set them within the context of the human tendency for nostalgia. Guided tours begin at 4pm on days when the show is open.

Venue: 42 Petain Road, Singapore

When: 9 - 10 Jan 2016, 2.30pm - 8pm

By: n/a