(London, UK) From 6 – 15 January 2023, Saatchi Gallery will present a first-of-its-kind pop-up installation at the 11th edition of Singapore Arts Week 2023 with internationally recognised British artist Philip Colbert. This must-see outdoor art installation will mark the first time Saatchi Gallery has participated in Singapore’s burgeoning art scene – the first and only UK gallery to do so. It also celebrates Philip Colbert’s first exhibition in Singapore, following widely successful exhibitions in neighbouring Asian countries.
The free-to-visit installation will include four sculpture commissions towering over 2 meters tall, and one over 3 metres. The stainless-steel painted sculptures will be on view along the iconic Marina Bay waterfront promenade as part of Singapore Art Week 2023.
Widely referred to as the ‘Godson of Andy Warhol’, Philip Colbert creates colourful cartoon-like sculptures as a representation of the artist’s own alter-ego. Colbert has created a global cult following for his cartoon lobster persona and his masterful hyper-pop history paintings. His work powerfully explores the patterns of contemporary digital culture and its relationship to a deeper art historical dialogue.
“This unique installation supports Saatchi Gallery’s charity mission to champion artist and render contemporary art accessible to all, bringing an incredible British artist like Philip, and his magnificent sculptures, into Singapore’s vibrant and exciting artistic landscape.” Georgina Greenslade,Head of Communications & International Development at Saatchi Gallery.”I’m very excited to be showing this series of sculptures in the iconic Marina Bay in Singapore, with the mix of water and the reflection of the cityscape there couldn’t be a better backdrop for the Lobster. Among the sculptures, there are a few works I’m showing for the first time. The Lobster Spam can & the Lobster painter. Singapore is a city I have been drawn to for a number of years and I am really happy to have collaborated with Saatchi gallery to bring this project to life. They have played an important part in my development as an artist and I’m excited to be collaborating with them again to realise this very ambitious sculptural project.” Philip Colbert, artist.
“As Principal Patron of The Saatchi Gallery we’re committed to making art, culture and creativity accessible to all. We’re therefore delighted and excited to see Philip Colbert’s sculptures here in Singapore, our key regional hub in Asia, and look forward to them being a key part of Singapore Art Week.” Richard Morewood Asia CEO, M&C Saatchi.
Singapore Art Week 2023 includes over 130 art events across the island and online, featuring new works and transnational collaborations including with Saatchi Gallery. In addition, virtual art experiences will enable audiences all over the world to access and discover the exciting art community in Singapore and beyond. The collaboration between Saatchi Gallery and Singapore Art Week supports Saatchi’s charitable mission to champion artists and render contemporary art accessible to all. Singapore’s signature visual arts season represents the unity and pride of a diverse and vibrant arts community. Its 11th edition will celebrate the practices of Singapore artists with an eclectic mix of online and physical visual arts programmes and experiences across the island.
Audiences all over the world can access and discover the exciting art in Singapore’s arts and cultural institutions and beyond, or engage in enriching discussions, talks, public art walks and tours. A catalyst of creativity, Singapore Art Week continues to be a spotlight, gathering and launchpad for the arts community in Singapore.