I hope this post gives you another coffee option the next time when you are in the Arab quarter.
Artistry on 17 Jalan Pinang serves a simple yet delightful menu of coffee using beans by Liberty Coffee, assorted infusion teas by pot and artisan Windowsill pies. Paying homage to the heritage site where the café sits, the tables here are built with recycled wood from the old Malay village in Geylang Serai.
Table No. 58 from Old Airport Road, by Iskander Walen.
Behinds being a water hole, the venue also serves as an exhibition space for local emerging artists to showcase their works. Currently running in the house is a photographic exhibition called Accidental Art by British photographer Andrew Gurnett.
The gallery changes its exhibit theme every three weeks. Sure there is a need to come back for coffee regularly.
Artistry (Facebook)
17 Jalan Pinang
Tues to Sun, 10am - 7pm
Closed on Mondays
6298 2420
And since we are touching on this topic of contemporary art, if you are an easy fan for like me, Gillman Barracks should already be on your radar. Set amid lush greenery, the formal colonial barracks (named after British General Sir Webb Gillman) underwent a years-long makeover and now houses a diverse selection of art galleries, from both local and international, as well as creative businesses. The best part of it? Admission is free all day.
Intrigued to find out more, I joined one of the free guided tours organized by Art Outreach.
'It seemed like a good idea at the time' by Singaporean artist Chun Kai Feng at Fost Gallery (Block 1), which mainly features works by Singaporean artists. Does this look somewhat familiar?
'And we dreamt we were birds' by Donna Ong.
Over at the Michael Janssen Gallery (Block 9), many bursted out into laughter when they saw these hilarious graffiti by street art artist POPO.
The works of Korean artist Hyung Koo Kang can be seen at Mizuma Gallery (Block 22).
Apart from its visual offerings, this art enclave also boasts a number of F&B names such as Timbre, Masons and The Naked Finn (set to open early next year). Located at the foot of Alexandra Arch along the Southern Ridge Walk, this inviting green pocket makes an ideal alternative to the over-popular HortPark. It's the next Dempsey in the making if you ask me.
So make this your weekend destination this week. Click here to learn more about directions.