If you’re hanging around Tanjong Pagar with 30 minutes to spare, visit a whimsical art exhibition by Japanese artists held at I.F. Gallery. We think families will thoroughly enjoy the gallery located at 45 Tras Street.
Free Japanese Art Exhibition at I.F. Gallery, Tanjong Pagar
I.F. Gallery currently displays artworks by Saito Sho, Kenji Yanobe and Yuki Matsueda’s iconic artworks. The gallery is located just a short stroll away from Tanjong Pagar MRT’s Exit A and is a wonderful spot to visit for families in the vicinity.
Kenji Yanobe’s Ship’s Cat
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You will not miss Kenji Yanobe’s iconic Ship’s Cat at the gallery. Its huge hypnotic eyes with its larger than life form makes it look formidable in the compact space. The artist’s installation series is about cats that travel all over the world alongside the ship’s crew, protecting vessels and warding off epidemics.
The large cat is titled “Navigator” designed with elements of Singapore! I was drawn to its reflective metal space suit, as well as the symbols on its shoulders and back. Can you figure out which elements they represent?
For cat lovers, you can even purchase miniature Ship’s cats at the gallery’s store.
Wisps in the Enchanted Garden by Saito Sho
My family was really amused by Saito Sho’s whimsical and humorous artpieces. From introverted rabbits to ignorant bears, we enjoyed looking at Saito’s creations and even recognised local landmarks he included in his paintings.
To prepare for the exhibition, Saito even travelled to Singapore and made sure to notice our environment, cultural diversity and incorporated important elements in his creations. You can see if you find familiar landmarks, and even food in the delicately painted pieces.
Using anthropomorphic animal characters, Saito’s art connects humans, nature, and society in a humorous way. We probably can relate to the characters and share some laughter.
Yuki Matsueda’s iconic artworks
Once you step into I.F. Gallery you wouldn’t miss two exit signs to the left which are artworks by Yuki Matsueda. My teen son loved the take on the green figures typically known to most as 2D-types, seeing them out-of-the-box is such a novel approach.
Do note that the artworks are all for sale, hence do not touch them.
Other Activities at Tanjong Pagar
Pair the gallery visit to other spots in the vicinity. Chinatown is just a short walk from Tanjong Pagar for further exploration. Food spots include Sabar Japanese Izakaya or Yakiniku Gyubei at 100 AM Mall, apart from other popular eateries. Tanjong Pagar Market is also a stone’s throw away for delicious hawker food.
Wisps in the Enchanted Garden
From now till 30th May 2025
Where: 45 Tras Street, S078984
When: 12 pm to 8.30 pm daily
