Recognising the importance of public art in Singapore's streetscape

Question

Ms Janice Koh: To ask the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth whether the Ministry will consider setting up a special fund to annually commission new public art and sculptures by local and regional artists for Singaporeans to enjoy in public buildings, parks and neighbourhoods and, if so, whether the first commissions can be done in time to celebrate Singapore's 50th birthday in 2015.

Response

Acting Minister Lawrence Wong: We recognise the importance of public art in Singapore's streetscape, be it in our commercial districts or our residential heartlands.

For these reasons, the National Arts Council (NAC) and the National Heritage Board (NHB) offer several schemes to bring art by local and regional artists to more public spaces. The NAC supports public art projects through grants, and commissions new art pieces through platforms like the Singapore Biennale. The NHB's Public Art Tax Incentive Scheme allows individuals and organisations to get a double tax deduction if they commission or donate public art.

My Ministry is now in the process of reviewing how we can further encourage more art in our public spaces. This is not just a matter of public funding. More importantly, we will need the support of all stakeholders, including commercial entities and building owners to develop our public art environment. Through this review, we aim to have more quality artworks in our public spaces for all Singaporeans to enjoy.