The Singapore Tyler Print Institute is a creative workshop and art gallery situated near Robertson Quay, in close proximity to the Singapore river. This building has a full workshop with machinery, a galley, a library, housing and a restaurant for artists within its 3 floors. Started in 2002, STPI is helping Singapore achieve its hopes of becoming a dynamic and contemporary art hub. The institute focuses on artistic experimentation outside the confines of conventional fine art. It brings international artists together and challenges them to go beyond their comfort zones and try new methods of creating art in the mediums of print and paper. The institute collaborates with regional artists, organizes panel talks, conducts workshops and guided tours to share their experiences with the public.
STPI is Asia’s largest paper mill and has specialised facilities and resources its artists use. At the STPI “paper becomes a medium that expresses itself rather than be just a medium that is expressed upon”, and is used to make sculptures, paintings, or to add texture to any artwork. The STPI blends engineering with art to create textured artworks that utilize various materials and techniques. The STPI uses lithography, screenprint, intaglio, relief print, and other techniques and processes to redefine art. The gallery showed the work of Jason Martin, through an exhibition called “Meta physical”. In particular, Jason Martin explores the possibilities of embossed relief and paper casting. He has created stunning works titled Out of My Mind, and Run to the Hills in this manner.
This institute is one of a kind in terms of the perspective and appreciation that it gave me.
From understanding how the art was created, to actually feeling the materials, going through the process to the final product in the gallery, the experience here was fresh and unique!
Some interesting quotes from the tour guide:
“Paper becomes a medium that expresses itself rather be just a medium that is expressed upon.”
“Artists come to be pushed out of their comfort zones, and this is evident through the works produced.”