Gift: Collecting Entanglements and Embodied Histories

The Gift is a part of the Collecting Entanglements and Embodied Histories project, which explores the idea of inter-relation and exchange in history, geography, and identity. It features the works of 15 artists and examines how the act of giving is performed, remembered, and entangles.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 25 April 2023
Publisher: National Gallery Singapore

The Gift is a captivating component of the Collecting Entanglements and Embodied Histories curatorial project, which delves into the Singapore segment. With a focus on the interconnectedness and exchange of ideas across history, geography, and identity, this comprehensive catalogue showcases the artistic creations of 15 talented artists, exploring the intricate dynamics of the act of giving, its remembrance, and its profound entanglement within various contexts. This collaborative project is a testament to the rich cultural exchange between the collections of Galeri Nasional Indonesia, MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum, Nationalgalerie – Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, and Singapore Art Museum, initiated by the esteemed Goethe-Institut. The curatorial expertise of Anna-Catharina Gebbers, Grace Samboh, Gridthiya Gaweewong, and June Yap has brought forth a series of thought-provoking exhibitions that invite viewers to engage with the complexities of human relationships and the enduring legacies of generosity.

The Gift takes us on a journey through time and space, exploring the multifaceted aspects of giving and its profound impact on individuals, communities, and societies. Through a diverse range of artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, installation, and performance, the artists present us with thought-provoking perspectives and narratives that challenge our understanding of the gift.

One of the central themes of The Gift is the idea of inter-relation and exchange, which permeates all aspects of human existence. The artists explore how the act of giving creates connections and fosters understanding between people, transcending boundaries of culture, religion, and nationality. They challenge us to think beyond the material aspects of the gift and consider the emotional and spiritual dimensions that it encompasses.

Another notable aspect of The Gift is the examination of how the act of giving is remembered and commemorated over time. The artists explore the ways in which memories are shaped, shared, and preserved, and how they contribute to the construction of collective identities. They challenge us to think about the role of memory in shaping our understanding of history and the present, and the ways in which it can be used to promote social change and healing.

The Gift also delves into the complex entanglements that arise from the act of giving. The artists explore how the gift can create obligations, responsibilities, and tensions between givers and receivers, and how it can be both a source of joy and a source of pain. They challenge us to think about the ethical implications of the gift and the ways in which we can navigate the complexities of giving and receiving in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Throughout the catalogue, the artists present us with a rich tapestry of artistic expressions that evoke a range of emotions and perspectives. From the abstract and conceptual to the sensory and immersive, each piece invites us to engage with the complexities of the gift in new and thought-provoking ways.

In conclusion, The Gift is a remarkable exhibition that offers a profound exploration of the human experience of giving and receiving. Through the works of 15 talented artists, it sheds light on the interconnectedness of history, geography, and identity, and challenges us to think about the ethical and emotional dimensions of the gift. This exhibition is a testament to the power of art to inspire, provoke, and transform, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of generosity and compassion in our world.

Weight: 700g
Dimension: 260 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811809231