National Gallery Singapore’s Gallery Gala 2025: A Decade of Imagination raised an unprecedented S$2.8 million, marking the highest fundraising total in the Gallery’s history. The funds will advance its mission of making art accessible to all — from enabling blockbuster exhibitions and deepening curatorial research, to expanding programmes that engage children, seniors, and underserved communities.

Each edition of the Gallery Gala is more than an evening of art and glamour it is a vital fundraising platform that expands the National Gallery Singapore’s collection of Singapore and Southeast Asian modern art, enhances accessibility and inclusivity across exhibitions and programmes, and develops impactful community outreach and education initiatives. Guests always expect exceptional culinary and creative experiences, with the much-anticipated Live Auction as a centrepiece. In 2025, the Gala carried even greater weight, and invited guests to reimagine possibilities for art and culture in Singapore, where every seat purchased and every donation contributed directly to this mission.

The evening welcomed more than 300 distinguished guests from Singapore’s arts, business, and philanthropic circles. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong graced the occasion as Guest of Honour, speaking on the vital role of philanthropy in sustaining the arts.

In his welcome address, Mr Peter Ho, Chairman of National Gallery Singapore, reflected on the Gallery’s journey: “Ten years ago, we opened our doors with a bold vision: to create a People’s Museum where art belongs to everyone. Tonight, we celebrate not just a milestone, but a dream realised together. What started as Singapore’s home for modern Southeast Asian art has blossomed into something even more ambitious. We now champion both modern and contemporary artists across our region, holding the world’s largest public collection of modern art from Singapore and Southeast Asia.”

Dr Eugene Tan, CEO and Director of National Gallery Singapore, echoed this forward-looking spirit: “A Decade of Imagination reflects our recognition that the next ten years demand fresh perspectives. We must refresh our approaches, reinvent our programming, and reimagine how we connect with evolving audience expectations whilst maintaining our commitment to making art accessible to all. The proceeds from this gala will directly support our curatorial research, international exhibitions, and community access programmes.”

On behalf of the Steering Committee, Gala Co-Chair Mr Aun Koh added: “We want to thank everyone who came together – our committee members, volunteers, and supporters who dedicated their time, resources, and networks – to make this milestone evening possible. With everyone’s generosity, we raised an incredible S$2.8 million, a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we come together to champion the value of art. Their passion is what makes the Gallery’s mission come alive, inspiring connections across generations and communities.”

The Sotheby’s-managed Live Auction was the night’s centrepiece, featuring nearly 90 rare artworks and luxury experiences. Spirited bidding in the room and strong participation online drove record results.

Li Huayi’s Pine Breezes in Golden Glow II achieved S$517,000 — the highest price ever for an auctioned item at the Gallery.

Yayoi Kusama’s Self Portrait sold for S$55,000, while Lim Tze Peng’s Gratitude fetched S$50,000.

Coveted lifestyle lots included the Britannic Explorer Train Experience by Belmond, transporting guests from The Cadogan in London to Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Edward Fung, Director of Kwai Fung Hin Art Gallery, whose family contributed Li Huayi’s work, reflected: “I’m delighted to have won the Timeless Elegance: 2019 Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti at the Gala Auction. What makes this truly meaningful is knowing that every bid contributes to a greater purpose — supporting the arts and the important work of National Gallery Singapore.”

Chloe Tong, Co-Founder of ACE Team Foundation, added: “The Gallery inspires us by creating spaces that unite our community, spark imagination, and nurture belonging. We hope our support encourages more to rally behind its mission, and together, shape a future full of creativity and connection for generations to come.”

The evening unfolded with unforgettable experiences:

Red-Carpet Moment: For the first time, guests ascended the historic City Hall steps, creating a Singaporean “Met Gala moment.”

Dining Among Masterpieces: The Gallery’s Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery 1 was reimagined into a long-table dining hall where Michelin-starred Julien Royer, heritage champion Damian D’Silva, and culinary icon Violet Oon crafted an extraordinary dinner — with Oon cooking live inside the galleries.

Performances: The night featured captivating performances by HAVEN, SORN, DJ Nicolette, DJ Kiara, and NAFA, alongside the support of 20 official partners who helped make the Gala possible.

Gallery Gala 2025: A Decade of Imagination went beyond fundraiser alone, to provide a testament to the transformative power of art and community generosity. It brought together artists, collectors, patrons, and supporters in a celebration that will leave a lasting mark on Singapore’s cultural landscape. As the Gallery embarks on its next decade, this milestone Gala reinforced its role as the custodian of the world’s largest public collection of Singapore and Southeast Asian modern art, while championing inclusivity and accessibility for all.

Photo Credit: National Gallery Singapore

More information about Gallery Gala 2025 available here