Five excellent shows at Gillman Barracks

GILLMAN Barracks went through another round of bad press recently when it was announced in Parliament that the 6.6 hectare site is being studied for residential development. Factors such as low footfall and a possible under-utilisation of space were dredged up to suggest that the land could be put to better use.

But among the 11 art galleries there, many continue to hold outstanding shows by established and emerging artists. They give credence to the argument that art should have a place in any future plan for the neighbourhood. As a space for creativity and cultural engagement, there has never been anything quite like it in the history of Singapore.

We pick out five in this month’s slate of shows that deserve to be seen.