Exploring the Influence of Asian Artists on Parisian Modern Art in a Landmark Exhibition

SINGAPORE, 18 March 2025 – National Gallery Singapore presents City of Others: Asian Artists in Paris, 1920s-1940s, a pioneering exhibition that highlights the experiences of Asian artists who lived and worked in Paris during a transformative period in modern art history. Featuring over 200 artworks and 200 archival materials, the exhibition sheds light on the creative exchanges between these artists and their Parisian contemporaries, challenging conventional Western-centric narratives of modern art.

Running from 2 April to 17 August 2025 at the Singtel Special Exhibition Gallery, City of Others explores themes of identity, cultural exchange, and artistic resilience. The exhibition showcases paintings, sculptures, lacquerware, and decorative arts by artists such as Foujita Tsuguharu, Georgette Chen, Lê Phổ, Liu Kang, and Sanyu. Through their experiences, visitors gain insight into how Asian artists navigated the vibrant yet challenging interwar period in Paris.

Dr. Eugene Tan, Chief Executive Officer and Director of National Gallery Singapore expressed enthusiasm for the exhibition: “We are excited to present City of Others, which reframes art history by placing Asian artists at the forefront. As the Gallery marks its 10th anniversary, we continue our mission to explore Southeast Asia’s art history within a global context. This exhibition offers fresh perspectives on modern art by recognising often-overlooked figures who played key roles in shaping this period.”

Supported by Series Partner Singtel and Presenting Partner J.P. Morgan, the exhibition also enjoys strategic backing from the Singapore Tourism Board and Exhibition Supporter Cartier. Wai Mei Hong, Senior Country Officer for J.P. Morgan Singapore, emphasised the significance of the exhibition: “Art serves as a powerful medium for connection. City of Others celebrates the contributions of Asian artists in shaping modern art, and we are proud to support this initiative.”

The exhibition is structured across multiple thematic sections, offering a deep dive into different aspects of the Asian artists’ Parisian experience:

  • Preface: Explores self-representation and identity through portraits by artists such as Georgette Chen and Lê Phổ.
  • Workshop to the World: Highlights Asian artists’ contributions to the Art Déco movement, featuring lacquerware and jewellery from the Cartier Collection and Jean Dunand’s atelier.
  • Theatre of the Colonies: Examines Paris as both a platform for colonial propaganda and a site of anti-colonial resistance.
  • Spectacle and Stage: Showcases the role of Asian dancers in Paris, featuring archival footage of Raden Mas Jodjana, Komori Toshi, and Uday Shankar.
  • Sites of Exhibition: Investigates the diverse platforms where Asian artists exhibited, from national salons to commercial galleries.
  • Studio and Street: Focuses on Montparnasse as a hub of artistic exchange, spotlighting figures such as Foujita Tsuguharu and Sanyu.
  • Aftermaths: Reflects on the impact of World War II and decolonisation on the trajectory of Asian modern art.

City of Others provides a compelling re-examination of art history, offering visitors an opportunity to engage with rarely seen artworks and archival materials. Special Exhibition Passes are available for purchase via the National Gallery Singapore website at $25 ($15 for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents).