Voices from Affected Community Members on the Issue of Duplicate Images in Public Spaces

A recent survey by the National Arts Council found that over 70% of respondents in Singapore have noticed duplicate images in public art installations, sparking concerns over originality and creativity in community events.

The issue of duplicate images matters now because it reflects a broader conversation about the role of art in public spaces and the importance of supporting local artists. With the Singapore government's efforts to promote the city-state as a vibrant cultural hub, the proliferation of duplicate images raises questions about the authenticity and value of public art. As the city continues to invest in initiatives like the Singapore Art Week and the National Gallery Singapore, community members are calling for more attention to be paid to the sourcing and curation of public art.

In Tiong Bahru, residents have noticed duplicate images appearing in the neighbourhood's street art scene, with some murals and installations featuring identical or near-identical designs. Similarly, in Toa Payoh, community events like the Toa Payoh Festival have featured duplicate images in their promotional materials and decorations. Organisations like the Tiong Bahru Community Centre and the Toa Payoh West Community Club have also reported instances of duplicate images in their community newsletters and social media channels. The issue has sparked concerns among residents, with some calling for more transparency and accountability from event organisers and artists.

Understanding the Scope of the Issue

According to data from the Singapore Department of Statistics, the number of public art installations in Singapore has increased by over 20% in the past five years, with a total of 150 new installations added in 2025 alone. However, the same data shows that the number of unique artists contributing to these installations has decreased by 15% over the same period, suggesting a potential link between the proliferation of duplicate images and the lack of support for local artists. As of January 2026, the average cost of commissioning a public art installation in Singapore is around $15,000, with some installations costing as much as $50,000 or more.

So what happens next? Community members are calling for more education and awareness about the issue of duplicate images, as well as greater support for local artists and initiatives that promote originality and creativity. Residents can get involved by attending community events and engaging with local artists, as well as by reporting instances of duplicate images to the relevant authorities. By working together, Singaporeans can help to promote a more vibrant and authentic cultural scene, one that reflects the city-state's unique character and creativity. The National Arts Council has announced plans to launch a new initiative in August 2026, which will provide funding and resources for local artists and community groups to develop original and innovative public art installations.