Architecture
July 29, 2024
October in Singapore: Your Ultimate Guide to Design Workshops & Creative Events
Published on September 30, 2024 | by DSGN arcHive
Curious to dive deeper into Singapore’s buzzing design scene? We’ve got the perfect spots lined up just for you.
Get ready for a design extravaganza this October in Singapore! The city’s design scene is absolutely buzzing, and there’s no better time to explore its creative offerings. If you’re planning a visit to this vibrant metropolis, make sure you don’t miss out on the exciting events happening throughout the month. Put your creativity to the test at a variety of hands-on workshops, where you can learn new skills and craft unique pieces. Plus, dive into captivating urban tales that reveal the essence of the city and test new flavours at innovative culinary experiences. Discover the future of fashion and so much more! Check out our top picks for must-see events that showcase Singapore’s unique design landscape. Scroll down for all the juicy details!
Your October Guide to Singapore's Design Scene
1. The Art of the Brick LEGO
Get ready for some fun because Art of the Brick has landed in Singapore! After wowing crowds in over 100 cities across 24 countries and making it onto CNN’s “Must-See” list, this colourful exhibition is here to brighten your day. With over 150+ amazing artworks made from more than a million LEGO bricks, there’s something to make everyone smile—adults and kids alike! Check out the creative spins on iconic pieces like Michelangelo’s David, Van Gogh’s Starry Night, and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. And you can’t miss the massive 6-metre-long T. rex skeleton! Plus, there’s a multimedia LEGO photography collection by award-winning photographer Dean West that’s just brilliant. Swing by the Expo to unleash your inner artist in the play and build area or grab some exclusive LEGO goodies at the gift shop. This exhibition has already amazed over 10 million people worldwide, so come on down and get inspired!
Price: Starting $14.90 onwards
When: ongoing
Where: Hall 8B, 9 Somapah Road, Singapore Expo, 487370
2. Singapore Design Week 2024
Get excited—Singapore Design Week (SDW) is back, running from 26 September to 6 October! This 11-day celebration is all about showcasing Singapore’s unique design and creativity. Organised by the DesignSingapore Council, the festival hub at the National Design Centre will be buzzing with activities, while Design Districts in Bras Basah.Bugis, Marina, and Orchard promise even more to explore. This year’s theme, “People of Design,” shines a light on everyday visionaries who are making a real difference through their work. Expect to be inspired as you uncover your own design potential and see how these creative minds aim to make Singapore a more liveable and loveable place. Don’t miss out on this chance to dive into the vibrant world of design!
Price: Includes some free events and some paid
When: Now till 6 October 2024
Where: Multiple locations across the island
3. Rattan Eco Sprawl: Manifesting the Forest by Zen Teh
This exciting installation, Rattan Eco Sprawl, launches on 6 October 2024 in a peaceful corner of Spottiswoode Park! Made mainly from rattan, it draws inspiration from nature—think mountains and insect homes—while also paying tribute to the sacred structures of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. With Singapore’s urban landscape changing so quickly, this piece beautifully highlights our delicate connection with the natural world. The launch will feature a fun programme, including a short film about how the installation was created and a talk by the artist sharing her cool, interdisciplinary approach. Plus, you’ll get to meet the talented rattan artisans from Cambodia and learn some of their weaving techniques! And the best part? Registration is free! So, mark your calendar and get ready to explore this amazing blend of nature and design!
Price: Free Registration, Click here for more information
When: 6 October 2024 – 31 December 2025
Where: Spottiswoode Park Forest (access path opposite Spottiswoode Residences)
4. OPEN END: Resonate, Re-Read and Re-Trace The Substation Archive
OPEN END: Resonate, Re-Read and Re-Trace The Substation Archive celebrates the legacy of Singapore’s first independent contemporary arts space, The Substation. Featuring artists Chong Li-Chuan and Urich Lau, along with curator Adrian Tan, this exhibition adds a fresh vibe to the usually quiet Rotunda Library & Archive. With text-based pieces, video installations, and soundscapes, it dives into The Substation’s history and mixes in archival materials for new perspectives on its rich past and vibrant communities. Exciting public programmes include curator-led tours, an artist panel, and a lively public art performance in the Rotunda Archive. Presented by the National Gallery Singapore and supported by the Platform Projects Curatorial Award, this exhibition is a fantastic way to kick off The Substation’s Anniversary Events 2024!
When: 4 Oct – 4 Dec 2024, Monday to Friday | 10 am – 12.30 pm and 2.30 pm – 5 pm (closed on public holidays)
Where: Supreme Court Wing, Level 3, UOB Southeast Asia Gallery, Rotunda Library & Archive
5. Re-Route: Orchard
Mark your calendars! The Re-Route Festival is back, running till Sunday, 6 October 2024, and this year it’s all about Re-Route: Orchard (RR). Curated by the creative minds at PLUS Collaboratives, this festival promises to turn Orchard Road into a playground of design and storytelling. The theme, “Be Here Now,” dives into adaptive reuse—taking old structures and giving them a brand-new purpose. You can look forward to amazing installations and fun activations that show how design can adapt to meet new needs, not just in buildings but in programs and the way we interact with spaces. With a mix of curated experiences, installations, and workshops throughout Orchard Road, you’ll get to explore how adaptability can spark curiosity and change the way we experience this iconic shopping belt. So, come on down and join the adventure—there’s so much to see and do!
Click here for more information
When: Now till 6 October 2024
Where: Orchard Road Singapore
6. Sketch Up
Get ready to unleash your creativity! Arts House Limited (AHL) is kicking off its first-ever outdoor mass-sketching event, Sketch Up, and it’s set to be a blast. In partnership with Art Apart Fair, this event invites you to dive into Singapore’s vibrant arts scene by sketching the iconic Victoria Theatre and Victoria Concert Hall. Whether you’re a pro or just love to doodle, everyone’s welcome! Plus, you’ll be joined by urban landscape painter Chankerk Teh and artists from Urban Sketchers Singapore. With over 400 participants expected, it’s bound to be an unforgettable day. And here’s the fun part—your artwork could be featured in a digital showcase, with the top-voted artist winning a Huion Kamvas 13 Drawing Pad and dining voucher. Even voters have a chance to win! Don’t miss the exclusive goodie bag packed with cool merch. Grab your sketching tools, and let’s celebrate creativity together!
Click here for more information
When: Saturday, 26 October 2024, 8 am to 12.30 pm
Where: Victoria Theatre and Victoria Concert Hall, Empress Lawn, 11 Empress Place, Singapore 179558
7. The World of Studio Ghibli
Get ready to step into the magical world of Studio Ghibli at the ArtScience Museum this October! It’s the first-ever Ghibli exhibition in Singapore, and it’s going to be huge. You’ll meet your favourite characters from classics like My Neighbour Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Howl’s Moving Castle, and Princess Mononoke. Expect stunning theatrical sets, interactive art installations, and fun activities that bring these beloved stories to life. Studio Ghibli, founded by legends like Hayao Miyazaki, has been enchanting audiences since 1985. Over the years, their films have racked up awards, including the 96th Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature this year for The Boy and the Heron. And if that’s not enough, they even made history by winning an Honorary Palme d’Or at Cannes! So, it’s the perfect chance to explore the magic and design behind these iconic films.
Prices: Starts from $24 onwards
When: 4 Oct 2024 – 2 Feb 2025
Where: 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
8. Batik Nyonyas: Three Generations of Art and Entrepreneurship, Peranakan Museum
Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of Batik Nyonyas: Three Generations of Art and Entrepreneurship! This exciting exhibition showcases the incredible story of three Peranakan women from Indonesia: Nyonya Oeij Soen King, her daughter-in-law Nyonya Oeij Kok Sing, and granddaughter Jane Hendromartono. From the 1890s to the 1980s, they made their mark in the batik scene. You’ll discover around 200 stunning batik textiles and other fascinating items that share their journey. As you explore, you’ll see how these talented women adapted to the changes around them, turning batik into both an art form and a successful business. Plus, you can join hands-on workshops, enjoy lively performances, and take part in guided tours. Don’t miss the contemporary art piece by Aiko Tezuka, which beautifully connects fabric and art. It’s a fantastic way to experience Indonesian batik through the vibrant lens of Peranakan culture!
Admission charges apply
When: 11 October 2024 to 31 August 2025; Daily, 10am–7pm | Fridays, 10am–9pm
Where: Peranakan Museum
9. Cheong Soo Pieng: Layer by Layer at the National Gallery Singapore
Step into a world where art and science collide at National Gallery Singapore’s latest exhibition, Layer by Layer. Opened on 5 April 2024, this exciting show is the first of four celebrating Singaporean artists, and it’s all about the incredible work of Cheong Soo Pieng. The exhibition features over 30 of his pieces and dives deep into his techniques and the materials he used. Best of all, it’s free and perfect for all ages! With interactive stations that let you feel the textures of his work, plus hands-on activities that show off the magic of art conservation—from infrared photography to x-ray scanning—it’s a fun and fascinating experience for anyone curious about how art really comes to life.
Admission is Free, Click here for more information
When: ongoing; Extended until 24 November 2024
Where: Ngee Ann Kongsi Concourse Gallery, National Gallery Singapore.
10. Coexistence by Design
Looking for something exciting at Coexistence by Design? There are plenty of programmes, tours, and events to explore! If you’re a nature lover, don’t miss the guided nature walk along Singapore’s historic trail. It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover the local flora and fauna while learning about the unique ecosystem of this hidden gem. Or, if you enjoy thought-provoking conversations, the panel discussion will feature experts from various fields sharing insights on how we can all better coexist. Fancy something more hands-on? The Kokedama Design Workshop is perfect for unleashing your creativity while learning the art of crafting Japanese-style moss ball plants.
Click here for more information
Price: Guided Nature Walk at $55; Panel discussion is free; Kokedama Design Workshop at $38
When: Guided Nature Walk on 4 October 2024; Panel discussion on 5 October 2024; Kokedama Design Workshop on 5 October 2024 (four sessions)
Where: Guided Nature Walk at Dairy Farm Nature Park; Panel discussion at Central Public Library; Kokedama Design Workshop at National Design Centre
National Design Centre, 111 Middle Road Singapore, 188969
11. Illumi
Looking for a dazzling night out that’s as magical as it is eco-friendly? Illumi is here, and it’s lighting up the city like never before! This jaw-dropping light, sound, and multimedia event has already begun, and you won’t want to miss a second of it. With energy-efficient LED lighting and a schedule that runs for just four hours each night to conserve energy, Illumi is proof that spectacular design can also be sustainable. Step into The Magical Forest, where a kaleidoscope of multi-coloured trees, glowing mushrooms, and even giant snails will enchant you. Then, be sure to catch the 47-metre Illumi Tree, towering over the skyline and visible for kilometres. It’s a breathtaking fusion of design, sustainability, and pure wonder—so grab your friends and head over now!
Price: $15 onwards, Click here to book your tickets
When: Now tilll 2 February 2025
Where: Bayfront Event Space next to Marina Bay Sands
12. Inktober
Feeling inspired by the city’s creative buzz? Why not kick off October with a splash of ink for Inktober! If you’re not familiar, Inktober is a month-long art challenge started by artist Jake Parker to help improve drawing skills and build positive creative habits. Every day in October, artists around the world create an ink drawing and share it online. It’s a brilliant way to get those creative juices flowing! So, if you’re ready to join the fun, now’s the perfect time to grab a good sketchbook and ink pen and dive into your very own October sketchathon.
And there you have it! A listicle to indulge your October design cravings. Stay tuned for more exciting design events and workshops headed your way!
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About DSGN arcHive
DSGN arcHive is your exclusive key to unveiling the enigmatic essence of a city, all filtered through the prism of design. Far from the ordinary tourist paths. We reveal the city’s architectural marvels, urban intricacies, cultural tapestry, and eco-conscious revolutions that mold its distinctive soul. With us, you’re invited to savor the metropolis in an entirely chic and sophisticated light, a city that’s far more than what meets the eye.
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