From living room to art gallery: HDB flat transformed into exhibition space for local artist’s works

SINGAPORE – In images circulating on social media, the space looks like an art gallery – minimalist white walls, wooden floors and furniture, warm yellow spotlights and a sleek projector screen.

But this is not a high-end venue downtown – it is the living room of a humble three-room improved HDB flat in Serangoon.

Over the weekend of Jan 18 and 19, full-time paper and visual artist Chia Ching Kai held an intimate exhibition for Blooming Papers – a series of art creations made from paper – in his partner Jeremy How’s home. The free exhibition drew more than 100 visitors across the two days.

Speaking to The Straits Times, Mr Chia, 44, said: “Blooming Papers explores the dual nature of paper – luxurious yet fragile – while challenging notions of durability and value.”

Inspired by 17th-century still-life paintings by Willem Kalf and in collaboration with local ceramic artist Shireen Abdullah, Mr Chia’s collection uses paper as a metaphor for human potential, inviting viewers to reflect on reinvention and the possibilities of reimagined materials – and reimagined lives.

Of the works of art on display, a grey board made from recycled waste paper and newsprint, juxtaposed with gold cardstock, stood out.

“I wish to highlight the importance of always celebrating the gold and the splendour within us, and not let external strife and institutionalised cares dull our light and passion,” Mr Chia said.

The decision to host the exhibition at home rather than in a commercial gallery was deliberate.

“We wanted to lower the barrier, making art feel less daunting for everyone – art enthusiasts and novices alike,” Mr Chia said.

“HDB flats are something most Singaporeans are familiar with,” he said, adding that “everyone comes from a home of sorts” so it felt appropriate to showcase art in a setting that is “lived in and alive”.

“Hopefully, it also inspires buyers and collectors to see how my art could look in a home setting.”

The 740 sq ft Housing Board flat “was already designed with ample spaces, uncluttered and suitable for an intimate show”, he added. 

Despite the unconventional venue, no special permission was needed to run the event. “It’s no different from hosting a baby shower or housewarming,” Mr Chia explained. Out of courtesy, the couple informed their neighbours in advance about the influx of visitors.

Educator Fiona Siew, 47, attended the exhibition on Jan 18. She told ST that it was a “fun and unique experience to see how art can be part of everyday life, in a living space”.

“It encouraged meaningful conversations with the artist and fellow guests… I think art connected everyone that day,” she said.

Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng, who is also MP for Braddell Heights, attended the exhibition after receiving an invitation from Mr How.

On Jan 20, Mr Seah took to Facebook to share his experience. “This could be a first, and it is in an HDB block in my constituency,” he wrote. “We saw the many possibilities and beauty of paper art and how it helped us reimagine materials, objects, art, and lives. You made this Sunday a most interesting and enjoyable one – well done.”

Mr Chia handled almost everything – from creating the art pieces to designing the space – along with Mr How, who took charge of marketing the event. Social media played a crucial role, with one sponsored ad running in the days leading up to the event, alongside personal invitations and word of mouth, said Mr Chia.

Of the 20 works of art on display, three were sold during the exhibition. The remaining works are available through Mr Chia’s online catalogue, and he hinted at the possibility of a rerun if demand arises.

Reflecting on the experience, Mr Chia said: “This was my first time running an exhibition in an HDB flat, and it definitely won’t be my last.”

He emphasised the importance of perseverance, planning, and a support network.

“Don’t wait for an invitation or opportunity. If you believe in something passionately, have a vision and execute it.”

• Vihanya Rakshika is a correspondent at The Straits Times, covering breaking news and current affairs.

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