Singapore Art Museum opened in 1996 as the first art museum in Singapore. Also known as SAM, we present contemporary art from a Southeast Asian perspective for artists, art lovers and the art curious.
SAM is building one of the world's most important public collections of Southeast Asian contemporary art, and as a non-profit arts institution – it is our responsibility to preserve, research, exhibit and connect the art and the artists to the public and future generations through thought-provoking exhibitions and meaningful programmes.
SAM is redefining the idea of the museum by presenting art in multiple spaces, including Tanjong Pagar Distripark and our two heritage buildings: the former St Joseph’s Institution on Bras Basah Road, built in 1855 and now a National Monument; and the former Catholic High School across the road on Queen Street. The heritage buildings are currently closed for redevelopment and will re-open in 2026.
SAM is proud to be the organiser of the Singapore Biennale, a festival that celebrates contemporary art from all over the world across the island-city of Singapore.
