ART SG Introducses SAM ART Fund, A New Benefactor-Led Funding For Singapore
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The SAM ART SG Fund marks a new chapter for contemporary art in Singapore
ART SG has announced the launch of the SAM ART SG Fund, a new initiative designed to support the Singapore Art Museum’s (SAM) permanent collection. This benefactor-led fund will focus on acquiring contemporary works from both leading and emerging international and Southeast Asian artists, elevating its position as a hub for cutting-edge visual arts in Singapore.
A Major Role For Art
Set to launch at ART SG’s third edition in January 2025, the SAM ART SG Fund is a testament to Singapore’s growing role in the global arts scene. The Fund will allocate SGD150,000 annually to acquire artworks at the prestigious international art fair, which will then be incorporated into SAM’s permanent collection.
This initiative is made possible through the generous support of prominent arts patrons such as Carmen Yixuan Li, Pure Yichun Chen, and other anonymous donors, with guidance from arts experts like Zong Han, Cultural Strategist, and Shuyin Yang, Fair Director at ART SG.
A Bold Commitment
The SAM ART SG Fund represents a major step in enhancing SAM’s collection, strengthening its ties with ART SG, and promoting a culture of philanthropy within Singapore’s arts community. This fund will recur annually for an initial three-year period, helping to acquire significant works of art at each ART SG edition.
Additionally, these new acquisitions will be showcased in SAM’s exhibitions, allowing the public to engage with the latest global and regional artistic trends. Eugene Tan, CEO of SAM, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This will expand the diversity of SAM’s collection and help us collect works that address vital global and regional conversations. We are grateful for the ongoing support of our patrons and partners.”
A Vibrant Future
As Magnus Renfrew, Co-Founder of ART SG, noted, “The SAM ART SG Fund signifies Singapore’s rising importance as a cultural hub in the Asia Pacific.” This new fund will play a key role in supporting the growth of Singapore’s vibrant art scene, with ART SG and SAM at its heart.
At ART SG 2025 (17 to 19 January) fans can witness this exciting new chapter in Singapore’s art journey, made possible by visionary donors and supporters.