The third edition of ART SG took place from 17 to 19 January 2025 at Sands Expo and Convention Centre at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. The leading contemporary art fair for Southeast Asia saw 105 galleries from 30 countries welcome some 41,000 visitors.
Participating galleries reported robust sales this year and works by local artists fared well too, including pioneer artist Cheong Soo Pieng (By the Lake (1979) SGD116,000) and the late second-generation Nanyang artist Chua Mia Tee (Smith Street (1981) SGD110,000).
Art fairs such as ART SG are important for collectors as you can see a wide range of art and meet art dealers all in one place in a short time. As Ms Jovin Yeo, Art Collector and Senior Director with Summit Planners Maximus shares:
“Art fairs are pivotal as they bring together world-class galleries, emerging artists, and collectors in one vibrant space. First, they help us keep a pulse on global art trends, ensuring our acquisitions stay relevant and potentially grow in value. Second, these gatherings offer networking opportunities where we get to speak directly with curators, experts, and fellow collectors who can spark fresh insights into how we might curate or expand our collections.
Moreover, art fairs often provide an educational and exhibition platform with panel discussions that deepen our understanding of an artist’s perspectives and also to understand market trends. This helps us become more discerning as collectors, aligning our passion for art with robust, knowledge-backed decisions.”
Collecting works by Singapore artists is becoming a trend for local art collectors. “ Our local artists can really benefit from our support and encouragement. I enjoy meeting up the artists and understanding their art journey, their aspiration, their trials and hurdles, their dedications and inspirations.’ - Mr Soo Chee Sern, Art Collector
Mr Soo Chee Sern, Art Collector (Image Credit: Artualize)Mr Soo, whose art collection includes works from prominent local artists such as Koeh Sia Yong, Ang Ah Tee and Leo Hee Tong, converted his 1,000 sqft office space into a private gallery to showcase and accommodate his growing collection.
His son, who is in his twenties, joins him in art events occasionally, including a recent talk on Cultural Medallion artist Tan Chor Tee.
Invite your children to attend art events together to instil their interest in art. For younger children, Jovin shares her client's story:
“One of our clients own a selection of paintings by an overseas artist. Because they established a dedicated art trust with clear instructions, not only were these pieces passed on seamlessly, the trust also provided funds for ongoing insurance, storage, and restoration work. As a result, the artworks continued to appreciate while staying within the family’s control.”
For collectors with young children, setting up a dedicated art trust will help to protect your art collection.ART SG will return to Singapore next year from 23 to 25 January 2026. Mark your calenders!
This article is written in partnership with Family Fortune Times.
“Inheritance in Art” is a series of articles to help you to manage your inheritance in art. Contact us if you require any assistance in this area; we are the experts in Singapore.
