LOOK: Singapore gets a glowing makeover as art installations light up the country
Singapore is always a good idea for many Filipinos. Sure, it's a fantastic (and nearer) option for catching a concert or Formula 1, or even a long weekend escape. But seasoned travelers know there's always something fresh to discover on every Singapore trip and every visitor, making it a destination worth exploring again and again.
I found myself in the city for the third time this year, and I was once again struck by the sheer variety of experiences it offered. To add to the city's existing charm, the Singapore Tourism Board has unveiled a packed calendar of events this year, including a sustainable light festival that transformed the city into a mesmerizing display of glowing art installations.
Organized by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), i Light Singapore, revamped public spaces across Marina Bay, South Beach, and Millenia Walk, and for the first time, Tanjong Pagar.
For a decade, i Light Singapore has attracted artists from across the globe to contribute to the city's transformation into a sprawling outdoor museum, with installations that breathe new life into familiar spaces.
This year's theme, "Cyclical Nature," embraced the color green and presented a challenge to 25 international artists. They were tasked with reimagining everyday objects, showcasing the "endless potential of repurposing, restoring, and redesigning." These creations serve not only as artistic expressions but also as powerful reminders of the importance of sustainable living, inspiring a collective vision for a greener future.
@philstarlife Check this out if you’re in Singapore this month! #philstarlife #ilight #ilightsingapore ♬ original sound - philstarlife
Light as artwork
I started my “tour” at the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade. I came at the right time and was able to catch the Marina Bay Sands Light and Water Show near where most installations are.
Here, visitors were greeted by a dome-shaped structure with colorful lights and playful music. This artwork, inspired by the “breezy dance of dandelion petals,” is called the Dandelion by Amigo & Amigo of Sydney, Australia. Beside it is an optical illusion artwork called Kinetic Perspective by Spain-based Juan Fuentes Studio.
The Pure Ring by Xu Dongliang and Toryo International Lighting Design Center are a few steps from that. Kids enjoyed the illuminated seats that change color when someone sits on them.
"Kinetic Perspective" by Juan Fuentes Studio
"Dandelion" by Amigo & Amigo, presented by Marina Bay Sands
"Arc ZERO: Nimbus" by Studio James Tapscott
"Pure Ring" by Xu Dongliang and Toryo International Lighting Design Center
"Spin Me a Yarn" by Studio Vertigo
"Bob the nice world" by BOB the nice guy
"Kinetic Perspective" by Juan Fuentes Studio
"Dandelion" by Amigo & Amigo, presented by Marina Bay Sands
"Arc ZERO: Nimbus" by Studio James Tapscott
"Pure Ring" by Xu Dongliang and Toryo International Lighting Design Center
"Spin Me a Yarn" by Studio Vertigo
"Bob the nice world" by BOB the nice guy
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Artworks that spark conversation such as Spin Me a Yarn, Alchemy of Atmospheres, and BOB the nice world remind us of the effects of human actions on climate change. Meanwhile, on the water, Fish Are Jumping inspires us to appreciate the simple things in life.
A crowd-favorite is the Arc Zero: Nimbus by Studio James Tapscott. It’s a ring of mist that looks majestic amid the view of the Collyer Quay skyline.
Down further is the Iwagumi Air Scape, transforming the Promontory at Marina Bay into a larger-than-life urban garden.
Another favorite among children is the Fountain of Happiness by 27June Studio located at Clifford Square. The swings and tubes illuminate once a seat is taken.
"Fountain of Happiness" by 27June Studio, presented by The Fullerton Heritage
"The Lantern" by Josephine Pun Tsz Kiu
"Lumi" by 65 SQM @ SUSA SPACE
"Modern Guru and the Path to Artificial Happiness" by ENESS
"Fountain of Happiness" by 27June Studio, presented by The Fullerton Heritage
"The Lantern" by Josephine Pun Tsz Kiu
"Lumi" by 65 SQM @ SUSA SPACE
"Modern Guru and the Path to Artificial Happiness" by ENESS
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One more interactive artwork like the Lumi can be found in South Beach. Here, visitors can sit on and move around the illuminated yoga balls wrapped in upcycled net fabric. Also in the same location is The Lantern, a pavilion made of over 5,000 recycled plastic bottles. Meanwhile, BottleBlooms, a similar solar-powered installation made from approximately 1,000 polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, can be found in Tanjong Pagar.
Interactive installation Kickit Team Tennis lets two teams of up to five players battle it out with illuminated balls, creating dazzling light trails across the field.
For a serene experience, head to Tras Link Park and explore Hidden Garden by Koros Design. This enchanting exhibit features trees adorned with luminous flower inflatables, paying homage to Singapore's rich flora and fauna.
Guests who are looking for "signs" must also make a stop at the Millenia Walk to see and get a message from the Modern Guru and the Path to Artificial Happiness.
Other events
This lighting festival kicked off on May 31 and ended on June 23, 2024. But even though the i Light Singapore has ended, there's still plenty to see and do in the Lion City throughout the year.
Kicking off the excitement, the Wellness Festival Singapore (WFS) is in full swing until July 21st. This month-long event offers a variety of activities promoting relaxation, mindfulness, and overall well-being.
For foodies, Sentosa's Gourmet Park is a must-visit. This open-air dining haven features food trucks by rising and Michelin-starred chefs, serving up elevated street food until the end of the year.
Other events to look forward to this 2024 are the National Day Parade happening on Aug. 9 to 10, the Mooncake Festival on Sept. 17, and the much-awaited Singapore Grand Prix: Singapore F1 on Sept. 20-22.
In October, the Tour de France Prudential Singapore Criterium will offer races, meet-and-greets, and a culminating concert.
And, from Oct. 4 to 13, ULTRALUXE SINGAPORE at the Tent@Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza will offer some of the world’s finest luxury jewelry, fashion, and lifestyle products.
Then from Nov. 2 to 9, catch to see our very own Philippine team compete at the international youth football tournament in Southeast Asia, SingaCup.
And for geeks out there, you can immerse yourself in comics, anime, toys, and the gaming industry at the Singapore Comic Con which will take place from Dec. 7 to 8.
Singapore, despite its size, never fails to surprise me with something new to visit—be it a bar, a restaurant, or a new workout space. Even my friend who lives there confirmed that there's always string of new experiences to discover... and a reason to come back.