India-Singapore joint art event to boost air travel to S'pore

Hyderabad To boost travel to Singapore and ignite passion for the country, the tourism board there is launching a SingapoReimagine campaign. As part of the larger programme, Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has partnered with Start India Foundation (Start) to create a large-scale outdoor, art installation titled "Dreams from the Futures", a cross-culture artistic collaboration between Singapore-based artist Tina Fung and Indian artist Osheen Siva.

This campaign has been taken up following the recent India-Singapore joint art event to boost air travel to S'pore announcement of quarantine-free, two-way Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) between Singapore and Indian cities for fully vaccinated travellers from March 16.

Inspired by the concept of Utopia, Dreams from the Futures/ (Ethirkaalak kanavugal) features the seamless amalgamation of traditional Tamilian and Singaporean elements – such as Peranakan motifs and classic mudras – juxtaposed with futuristic elements like cosmic portraits to showcase inclusivity, coexistence, and a connection between past and future.

This multi-layered installation invites Chennai audiences to imagine new and expansive futures, in line with the theme of SingapoReimagine as visitors can look forward to new, unexpected and innovative experiences in Singapore, alongside enhanced hygiene and safety measures.

The installation will be on display for three (3) weeks at Phoenix Market City, Chennai. The latest installation continues the series of cross-cultural artworks that STB and Start have jointly unveiled at iconic locations like Sassoon Docks, Mumbai, Lodhi Colony, Delhi and Little India, Singapore, all brought to life by the spirit of the vibrant island destination's brand, Passion Made Possible.

By weaving familiar elements from both cultures with futuristic imagery, the installation aims to reimagine the known and transport us through a journey of possible dreams. The diverse face silhouettes serve as a gateway into the work. As audiences walk through them, they are met by fellow visitors to share a sociable and explorative space. From the entrance onwards, the visitors are encouraged to consider the human connections we make as we cross roads with new cultures and people.

"As Singapore reopens its borders cautiously and gradually for international travel, the country is ready to welcome back Indian travellers with renewed experiences and seamless safety standards. Together with Start India Foundation, our 'SingapoReimagine' activation in the beautiful city of Chennai celebrates the Tamilian history and cultural connection between both the countries through the expression of art, GB Srithar, Regional Director- India, Middle East & South Asia (IMESA), STB, said.

"Going forward, we aim to elevate the campaign to other parts of the country to bring out the cultural commonalities, and also give a glimpse of the reimagined experience that visitors to Singapore can enjoy," he added.