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 residents in Singapore have noticed duplicate images in public art installations, sparking a debate about the impact on community character and cultural identity.

The issue of duplicate images in public spaces matters now because it reflects a broader conversation about the role of art and culture in shaping Singapore's urban landscape. As the city-state continues to invest in initiatives like the Singapore Biennale and the National Gallery Singapore, community members are questioning the value of public art that lacks originality and authenticity. This concern is particularly relevant in neighbourhoods like Tiong Bahru, where the mix of old and new architecture and the vibrant street art scene have made it a hub for creative expression.

In specific areas like the Tiong Bahru Market and the Toa Payoh Central, residents have expressed frustration over the repetition of identical images in murals and street art. For example, the Tiong Bahru Community Centre has featured the same duplicate image of a traditional Singaporean landscape in its annual cultural festival for the past three years. Similarly, the Toa Payoh West Community Club has used identical images of local flora and fauna in its community garden project. Organisations like the People's Association and the Singapore Tourism Board have also been involved in initiatives that have raised concerns about duplicate images, such as the i Light Singapore festival in Marina Bay and the Street Art project in Little India.

Understanding the Data

According to data from the Urban Redevelopment Authority, the number of public art installations in Singapore has increased by over 25% in the past five years, with a total of 150 new installations in 2025 alone. However, a report by the Singapore Institute of International Affairs found that only 12% of these installations feature original works by local artists. The remaining 88% are either duplicates or reproductions of existing images. This statistic is particularly striking when considering the cost of these installations, with the average price of a public art project in Singapore ranging from $50,000 to $200,000, according to a report by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth.

As the city moves forward, it is essential to consider the voices of affected community members and to prioritize originality and authenticity in public art. This could involve initiatives like the Public Art Trust, which aims to promote and support original works by local artists in public spaces. By doing so, Singapore can foster a more vibrant and unique cultural identity that reflects the diversity and creativity of its community. For instance, the upcoming Singapore Art Week in January 2027 could provide a platform for local artists to showcase their original works and for community members to engage with the issue of duplicate images in public spaces.