Singapore’s iconic Marina Bay Sands (MBS) has unveiled the Sands Innovative Arts Fund, a groundbreaking initiative with an initial donation of SG$500,000. This fund, operating under the National Arts Council’s Sustain the Arts Fund, marks one of MBS’s largest contributions to the art scene and aims to invest in emerging art forms and innovative creators. Aligned with MBS’s commitment to community engagement through Sands Cares, the fund seeks to inspire change and foster creativity in the arts space.
Objectives of the Sands Innovative Arts Fund:
The primary goal of the Sands Innovative Arts Fund is to support emerging talent and encourage the exploration of new technologies in artmaking and audience engagement. MBS envisions providing opportunities for growth to the creative community, nurturing innovation in the arts, and contributing to the evolution of Singapore’s cultural landscape. The fund is positioned as a key pillar under Sands Cares, emphasizing MBS’s dedication to making a positive impact on society.
Partnership with the National Arts Council:
The announcement follows the recent signing of a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MBS and the National Arts Council. This strategic alliance solidifies MBS’s commitment to becoming a vibrant platform for the arts, offering unique cultural experiences for event organizers and delegates. The collaboration aims to transform MBS into a “vibrant canvas,” enhancing its role in shaping the future of the arts scene in Singapore.
Potential for Dollar-for-Dollar Matching:
The Sands Innovative Arts Fund may be eligible for dollar-for-dollar matching under the Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth’s Cultural Matching Fund. If approved, this would elevate the total contributions to an impressive SG$1 million (US$745,000), further amplifying the fund’s impact on the local art community.
Statement from MBS Chief Operating Officer:
MBS Chief Operating Officer, Paul Town, expressed the significance of the initiative, stating, “The arts have the power to inspire, challenge, and transform communities. Through the Sands Innovative Arts Fund, Marina Bay Sands is proud to play a role in shaping the future of the arts scene in Singapore. This donation reflects our commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the arts space for future generations.”
Integration with Singapore Art Week:
The announcement coincides with Singapore Art Week, running from January 19 to 28. As part of the festivities, MBS is hosting the second edition of “Where Art Takes Shape,” an immersive celebration designed to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts and the broader community across the entire property.
Marina Bay Sands’ establishment of the Sands Innovative Arts Fund underscores its commitment to supporting and advancing the arts in Singapore. The fund’s focus on emerging talent, technological innovation, and community engagement aligns seamlessly with MBS’s broader mission of making a positive impact on society. As the fund’s initiatives unfold, it has the potential to reshape the cultural landscape of Singapore, contributing significantly to the growth and evolution of the local art scene.