Graffiti or Art? | Here Are Some Street Murals You Can Find In Singapore

The little red dot has more to offer than the tall buildings we are all accustomed to. There are still things about Singapore that could surprise you, from graffiti hiding in plain sight to pieces concealed in the backstreets. Lots of urban artworks that are available will steal your breath away among our many HDBs and high-rise buildings. Here are some places in Singapore where you can find street art for your next Insta-worthy backdrop.

Aliwal Street

Modern improvements to the vibrant neighborhood of Kampong Glam are nestled within the heritage sites of the area. You can find a bright piece of street art on the wall beside Aliwal Arts Centre’s rear alley entrance.. This alpha batik painting with looping tones, is part of the Aliwal Urban Arts Festival 2019. It’s is an eye-catching and breath-taking burst of color created by Singaporean artist Slacsatu.

Location: 28 Aliwal St, Singapore 199918

Hindoo Road

If you go to Hindoo Road in Little India, you’re likely to see a wall bearing a portrait of Rajinikanth, the legendary Tamil cinema actor. The mural, which was painted by Mohamed Zulkaernaen (known as ZERO among other street artist) pays homage to the Indian population and migrant laborers that dwell in the city. When the artist learned about Rajinikanth’s rags-to-riches narrative, he was inspired to paint his portrait and instil hope in those who see the mural.

Location: Carpark. 11 Hindoo Road, Singapore 209110.

Everton Road

Take a stroll down memory lane at Everton Road, a laid-back tiny neighbourhood. Blair Plain, a conservation area with a few businesses and flats, is located just across Everton Road. Here, Murals by modernist painter Yip Yew Chong, portrays images of old street barbers, Chinese domestic workers of back in the day, and old-school supply shops beautifully along the road’s walls. Seeing the art piece through a computer screen doesn’t do it justice as it perfectly encompasses a time in Singapore where life was simpler.

Location: 40 Everton Road, Singapore 089393.

Chinatown

Begin your search for Chinatown wall murals on Banda Street, which runs parallel to the Chinatown Complex. Van Gogh’s innovative approach of post-Impressionism, as well as the indomitable spirit of strong women, have influenced mural artist Belinda Low to create this beautiful piece. Beautiful portrayals of the pioneers who developed our nation, from fishermen and laborers to Samsui women (Sanshui District female migrants, known for their bright red headscarves), can be seen in many of her works along the street.

Location: 335 Smith St, S 050335

Hall Of Fame

Along Bali Lane and Ophir Road is Southeast Asia’s first “Graffiti Hall of Fame” (popular street art term that refers to a place with several walls that artists can paint freely) which is a legal zone dedicated to well-known street artists. The neighbourhood is home to vibrant street art that can be found throughout its back lanes. The installation is inspired by the precinct’s role in fostering the local street art movement. The artworks, created by 17 Singapore-based artists including Jaba Mathieu, ZERO, and ANTZ, covers 230 meters of noisy metal barriers. Here you can see a wonderful display of the greatest local street art talents that Singapore has to offer.

Location: 8 Bali Lane, Singapore 189845

With this list, get your water bottles ready, grab your kakis and some snacks so that you can head out for a street art appreciation day over the weekends.