CANVAS Singapore – a new kind of venue?

PUBLISHED September 1st, 2014 10:00 pm | UPDATED May 18th, 2020 04:31 pm

CANVAS opened its doors at the end of July 2014 with a new approach in mind. The brainchild of Bed Supperclub and Home Club, CANVAS promises to be a space that encompasses art, music and nightlife in one bringing something fresh and unique to Singapore’s existing nightlife. I decided to pay a visit and see if there really was something new on offer or if this was just another perfectly lovely bar adding to the list of other perfectly lovely bars.

 Approaching the outside, I’m drawn to a huge canvas outside with what appears to be the artist in question still working on it. My best friend accompanying me for the evening remarks that this is indeed novel and quite peculiar for an evening’s drinking experience. I agree.

I’m struck by yet another wall-art behind the main bar. This image comes across as more than just art – it’s making a statement. I find that the first 20 minutes have been spent analysing the canvas inside as well as admiring photographs on display. Not the usual bar experience and I do feel as though I’m in more of an exhibition space. Music is of the techno-dance variety but doesn’t entice me to the dance floor. I’m quite happy walking around and chatting with my girlfriend for now. I suspect it would need to change in order to make the dance floor seem inviting.

The artist adding to the experiential art gallery vibe is Razi who also happens to be the guy deciding the curatorial direction of CANVAS. He is keen to put local artists on show and dispel the notion that Singaporeans aren’t creative enough – indeed he’s proof of that himself. When I ask if he thinks the space will be successful in being known as an art venue he admits that they are still exploring this but the objective is clear – to strike a balance where audiences can enjoy both music and art within one space.

Drinks are reasonable with beer at $11 for a Kronenbourg and a glass of wine fetching $14 (bottle for $70). There’s a signature cocktail, Pollock No. 5 which is a must have for newbies and also fairly average in price at $18 for the glass. All other soft drinks are under $10.

Deciding to take a seat and soak in the ambience with our drinks, looking around I realise that despite the grey and overtly masculine tones, what stops CANVAS from becoming cold is the liberal use of art. This creates a space promising to showcase such work that one hopes will challenge stereotypes and offer a well deserved chance of discovery to local artists. Having the potential to cater to any event, be it an art exhibition or a vibrant dancing spot is definitely its biggest draw.

So if you’re after something more than just another perfectly lovely bar, pay CANVAS a visit.