Mandala Club Unveils Lee Kuan Yew Sculptures By Daniel Arsham & Partnership with Art Galleries Association
Mandala Club, the exclusive private members' club in the heart of Singapore, is making waves in the world of art and culture. Known for its thoughtfully curated spaces, world-class hospitality, and focus on inspiring its members, the club is proud to unveil an exciting line-up of art programmes designed to foster creativity, and celebrate Singapore's vibrant creative scene and beyond.
At the heart of this initiative is a strategic partnership with the Art Galleries Association Singapore (AGAS). This collaboration promises a series of curatorial takeovers in The Analogue Room of Mandala Club, accompanied by insightful panel discussions exploring narratives within the local art scene.
The club would also become home to two new art installations by New York-based contemporary artist Daniel Arsham. These striking artworks commemorate the life and legacy of Singapore's first Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew which would be housed in Art Deco pre-war shophouses dating back to 1928 on 31 Bukit Pasoh Road. The sculptures were commissioned by Refinery and X3D Studio in honor of the centenary of Mr. Lee Kuan Yew's birth capture the profound legacy of the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew in a unique artistic form, crafted from bronze, stainless steel, and patina.
Eroded Bronze LKY Full Body 1:2 depicts Mr. Lee right before his declaration of Singapore as an independent nation. The half-scale sculpture portrays a man who is circumspect, leaning forward and keenly aware of the herculean challenges that lay ahead for Singapore.
Eroded Bronze LKY Bust 1:1 stands as a testament to his wisdom and leadership.
The installations will be open to all guests of Mandala Club and members of the public during the opening hours of The Canvas at 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays, upon registration. This accessibility is a commendable move, further solidifying the club's role in supporting the wider arts community.
Mandala Club isn't stopping there. They've unveiled a series of curated takeovers and thought-provoking panel discussions at The Analogue Room, in partnership with AGAS. The first of these panels, "Championing Women Artists in Asia", has already taken place on April 5. This event saw key figures from the art world discuss ways to advocate for women artists in the region and their impact on Singapore's cultural landscape.
In the coming months, Mandala Club members and invited guests can look forward to a range of stimulating events, including:–
- 9 May 2024: Mother's Day Special | Wine & Korean Paper Wrapping Workshop with BOL Gallery
- 17 May 2024: Artist Talk with Vivian Eun Lee and BOL Gallery
- 5 June 2024: A Cocktail Evening with Wong Keen and artcommune gallery
- July 2024: Art Jamming session with artist Geesha Elizabeth K and Aestheletic Art Gallery
These events promise to be both engaging and informative, providing a deeper understanding of the art world.
Currently, POPI's and The Analogue Room showcase a diverse collection of works from artists across Asia. These pieces join a larger existing collection at The Straits Parlour, located on level 3 at the club. With art permeating every corner, the club creates a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere akin to a living room. All art pieces are available for sale as part of the club's commitment to supporting artists.
“We are excited to introduce to The Canvas two sculptures of Mr Lee Kuan Yew, a man who has played such a formative role in the development of Singapore into what it is today. As Singapore’s most dynamic private membership community, Mandala Club is a home for the celebration of art in every form, and we are thrilled to expand our collections in the Club with a tribute to a legend whose contributions to the country need no introduction,” said Ben Jones, Co-Founder and CEO of Mandala Club.
Kanpai!
88 Bamboo Editorial Team