ingapore is renowned in the world
for being a diverse society, with
various ethnic, racial, cultural and
religious groups living together in harmony.
In fact, freedom of worship is enshrined
in Singapore’s constitution as one of the
nation’s top prioritities. We are home to
more than 10 religions but the principal
ones include Buddhism and Taoism, Islam,
Hinduism and Christianity.
From now till 11 September 2016, head
over to the Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM)
to learn more about the sacred art and visual
splendour of the evolution of Christianity in
Asia. This is the world’s first exhibition on the
history and spread of Christian art in Asia and
ACM’s first special exhibition after its extensive
renovations last year.
Asia has became a key influencer in the
ASIAN CIVILISATIONS MUSEUM LAUNCHES
THE WORLD’S INAUGURAL EXHIBITION
WORDS: JOSMIN ONG
CHRISTIAN ART
IN ASIA
S
spread of Christianity since the 7th century,
and Asian art has absorbed these influences
into various cultures including those in
the Middle East, India, China, Japan, the
Philippines and the rest of Southeast Asia.
The artists who created these Christian
images may belong to other faiths but they
still manage to create a powerful notion and
story behind each artwork.
The curated exhibition is home to 800
years of art history, mainly from the 13th to
20 th centuries but holds a strong focal point
on art pieces from the 16th to 18th centuries,
this was the time of significant trading
and missions. Singapore, France, Portugal,
Italy, Hong Kong and the Philippines
form the largest contributors, with over
150 items from these countries, as well
as from 20 other acclaimed institutions
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