Discover Singapore’s Best Free Art Events This July: A Must-Visit Guide
- Singapore Expats Association
- Jul 9
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 11
Singapore’s vibrant art scene is constantly evolving, and July is the perfect month for art lovers to explore the city’s dynamic galleries and exhibitions, for free! From contemporary masterpieces to serene watercolours, these four free-entry exhibitions promise a delightful blend of creativity, culture, and community. Here’s your complete guide to what, where, when, and why you shouldn’t miss them.
1. "Everyday Practices" at Singapore Art Museum (SAM) @ Tanjong Pagar Distripark
📍 Location: SAM @ Tanjong Pagar Distripark, 39 Keppel Road, #01-02, Singapore 089065📅 Dates: Now until 20 July 2025🎟️ Ticket Price: Free entry
What Makes It Special:
“Everyday Practices” is a thought-provoking exhibition that explores how daily routines and mundane gestures can transform into powerful acts of creativity and cultural expression. The show features works from local and international artists, who reimagine daily habits, from cleaning and cooking to reading and resting, as artistic practices that tell larger stories about identity, community, and time.
Located in the contemporary space of Tanjong Pagar Distripark, SAM’s venue itself adds to the experience. With its industrial-chic atmosphere and spacious layout, visitors are encouraged to wander freely, pause, reflect, and interact with installations. This is not just an exhibition, it’s an invitation to see the beauty in the ordinary.
Highlights include immersive installations, video works, and participatory art that encourage you to slow down and notice the unnoticed. It’s a perfect outing if you love modern art that connects deeply with everyday life.
After your visit, take a stroll around the Distripark area, which is becoming a creative hub with nearby cafés and studios.
Insider Tip: SAM often hosts free public tours on weekends, check their website to join a guided walk-through and deepen your understanding of the works on display.
2. "As-Is" by Kiat at ARTitude Galería
📍 Location: ARTitude Galería, 120A Prinsep Street, Singapore 187937📅 Dates: Now until 28 July 2025🎟️ Ticket Price: Free entry
What Makes It Special:
"As-Is" is an intimate solo exhibition by contemporary Singaporean artist Kiat, known for his bold use of mixed media and raw, urban-inspired aesthetics. The title “As-Is” captures the artist’s honest approach: embracing imperfections, found materials, and spontaneous moments in his creative process.
Expect to see a unique blend of paintings, collages, and installations that draw inspiration from city life, discarded objects, and street culture. Kiat’s works invite visitors to consider the overlooked fragments of urban environments, how rust, decay, and random textures can hold unexpected beauty.
Housed in ARTitude Galería, an independent gallery that supports emerging and experimental artists, this show offers a fresh perspective for anyone interested in Singapore’s contemporary art scene.
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re intrigued by urban art, graffiti, or works that blur the line between studio and street, "As-Is" will resonate deeply. Bring a friend and discuss which piece sparks your curiosity the most.
Extra: The gallery is located near Bugis and Bras Basah, perfect for a cultural afternoon hopping between indie art spaces and heritage buildings.
3. "Miracles" by Ong Kim Seng at Confluence Art Space
📍 Location: Confluence Art Space, 51 Waterloo Street, #02-01, Singapore 187969📅 Dates: Now until 21 July 2025🎟️ Ticket Price: Free entry
What Makes It Special:
Ong Kim Seng is a household name among Singapore’s art lovers, celebrated for his exquisite watercolours that capture the light, mood, and timeless charm of everyday scenes. “Miracles” is his latest solo showcase, presenting new and classic works that transport you from Singapore’s heritage shophouses to serene riversides and bustling market streets.
Recognised internationally, Ong is one of Asia’s most respected watercolour artists and the only Singaporean member of the American Water colour Society. His paintings are rich with atmosphere and storytelling, often painted on-site, plein air, to capture fleeting moments of light and life.
"Miracles" is perfect for those who appreciate fine technique, traditional media, and scenes that evoke nostalgia and warmth. Confluence Art Space’s bright, welcoming setting makes it easy to enjoy the delicate details of each piece.
Why You’ll Love It: Whether you’re a budding watercolourist, a fan of local scenes, or simply looking for an inspiring moment of calm, Ong Kim Seng’s works will move you. The show is a reminder that beauty can be found in the everyday corners of life, and that painting them is a small miracle in itself.
Make a Day of It: Confluence Art Space is in the heart of the Bras Basah arts district, pair your visit with nearby museums like the Singapore Art Museum or a relaxing stop at a café along Waterloo Street.
4. "Wine & Watercolours" by Alicia Tan at Serenity Gallery
📍 Location: Serenity Gallery, #02-20 Bras Basah Complex, 231 Bain Street, Singapore 180231📅 Dates: Opening Night,25 July 2025 (6–9 PM); Open House,26 July 2025 (11 AM–7 PM); Exhibition runs until 8 August 2025🎟️ Ticket Price: Free entry
What Makes It Special:
"Wine & Watercolours" is an inviting solo show by Alicia Tan, whose delicate and expressive watercolour paintings celebrate nature, florals, and the serenity of simple moments. The exhibition opens with a special evening reception on 25 July, visitors can meet the artist, enjoy light refreshments and, of course, a glass of wine.
The next day, the gallery will host an open house from morning to evening, offering a casual, welcoming vibe for art lovers to drop by, chat with the artist, and learn more about her process. Alicia’s works are known for their gentle palettes and poetic compositions that evoke a sense of peace and mindfulness.
Set in Serenity Gallery, a cosy independent gallery in the iconic Bras Basah Complex, the show embodies its name perfectly. It’s a lovely break from the bustle of the city, inviting visitors to slow down and reconnect with the softer side of art.
Why You’ll Love It: Whether you’re an aspiring watercolour artist, a nature lover, or simply looking for a quiet corner to unwind, "Wine & Watercolours" is a refreshing experience. The artist’s warm presence and the intimate setting make this more than an exhibition, it’s a community gathering for art, conversation, and inspiration.
Bonus: After visiting, explore Bras Basah Complex’s hidden bookshops and art supply stores, perfect for picking up your own watercolours and trying your hand at painting!
Final Tips for Your Free Art Adventure
Plan ahead: While these shows are free, some venues may have limited slots for guided tours or opening events. Check their websites or social pages for RSVP details.
Support local artists: Many works are available for purchase, so if you fall in love with a piece, you can bring it home and support the artist.
Make it a day out: All these venues are near good cafés, heritage spots, and other galleries, so turn your visit into a full-day art trail.
Singapore’s art scene is alive and waiting for you, grab a friend, plan your route, and enjoy the best free creativity the city has to offer this July!
Ready to get involved? Email us today at members@expatassociation.com or join us now at https://www.expatassociation.com/join-us and be part of something meaningful.
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