A couple of weeks ago I had the privilege to visit the old Singapore Supreme Court and City Hall along St Andrews Road. The two buildings have been closed since the courthouse administrator offices moved out to the new Supreme Court building (which is just behind the former) in 2005. The two buildings were the last classical architecture building to be built on the former British colony which was completed in 1939.
The last time I entered the City Hall building was in 2008 for the 2nd Singapore Biennale. I was wowed by the impressive architecture and character of the building. And of course, the artworks which were on display.
So when I was invited by the folks from the National Art Gallery to have a preview of the National Art Gallery tour within the 2 buildings, I was esthetic. I love all things “old”. And as a vintage lover, I also drive a classic Volks Wagon Beetle. She’s a lovely old dame.
Back to the other two grand dames. For your info, the old Supreme Court and City Hall will become the home of the National Art Gallery Singapore, which will be ready sometime in 2012. This will be the art museum which will host Singapore’s finest local art works. But before the transformation, the National Art Gallery will be having an open house and the public are invited to have one last look at the two buildings before constructions begins.
The National Art Gallery open house will be on the 9th and 10th October. Due to it’s overwhelming response to the guided tour, the open house have been extended to the next weekend on the 16th and 17th October. Another 30 guided tour slots, adding a total of 750 places for the English tours will be available for 16th and 17th October 2010. So hurry and signup for your tour at http://www.nationalartgallery.sg/form/openhouse/.
Watch out for my next blog about my experience when touring the Old Supreme Court and City Hall, uncovering it’s hidden cells and passage ways during our tour.
