Singapore Art Museum
71 Bras Basah Road
Singapore 189555
Dr. Susie Lingham took office as Director of the Singapore Art Museum (SAM) from 1 August 2013. She replaces Mr. Tan Boon Hui, who took on a new role as Group Director, Programmes at the National Heritage Board of Singapore with effect from 1 July 2013.
Ms. Jane Ittogi, Chair of the SAM Board said, “I am very pleased with the appointment of Susie Lingham. She has a strong academic background in the study of contemporary society and the visual arts and a keen understanding of the needs of this sector. These attributes are important as we continue on the track of establishing SAM as a leading museum of contemporary art.”
Dr. Lingham, who is the third director of SAM, has a Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Literature, Religion and Philosophy from the University of Sussex, U.K. A writer-artist, art theorist and art educator, her interdisciplinary work and philosophical inquiry synthesizes ideas relating to the nature of mind across different fields, from the arts and humanities to the sciences. Dr. Lingham was an Assistant Professor with the Visual and Performing Arts Academic Group at the National Institute of Education from 2009 before she assumed her new role at SAM. She has taught at universities and art colleges in Australia, Singapore and the U.K. She has published extensively on topics related to the visual arts scene, particularly in relation to Singapore.
In recent years, SAM has gained international repute as a contemporary art museum that champions the artistic leadership of Singapore and the Asian region.
Of her appointment, Dr. Lingham said, “As an interdisciplinary practitioner myself, I understand and respect contemporary art as that meaningful, inclusive and exploratory ‘space’ that generates other spaces. Contemporary art is also where creativity and intellectual curiosity flourishes alongside generosity of heart and deep understanding of the human spirit. I believe that the Singapore Art Museum is this necessary space for serious research-led, and ever-evolving, curatorial and art practice. It is also a space where critical engagement with social, cultural and philosophical issues is presented and expertly made accessible to the various segments of the public. SAM, as the heartbeat of contemporary Singapore, will continue to grow significantly, within the region and beyond. I am humbled by my appointment and pledge to do my best.”
A member of Singapore Biennale 2013 Advisory Committee, Dr. Lingham will now, in her new capacity, also oversee the running of the upcoming Biennale that is organised by SAM. Mr. Tan continues to be involved as Co-Curator and Project Director of the Singapore Biennale 2013. SB2013 will open to the public on 26 October 2013 and will feature 81 artists predominantly from Southeast Asia. More information is available at www.singaporebiennale.org.
