Heman Chong's Survey at Singapore Art Museum Explores Bureaucracy and Meaning

Heman Chong's upcoming exhibition at the Singapore Art Museum runs from May 10 to August 17, 2025, and is named after a Wikipedia disclaimer about ever-changing lists. The show consists of nine themed rooms, featuring impressive works like Simple Sabotage (2016), inspired by a declassified WWII guide; Abstracts from The Straits Times (2018–), which hides news headlines; and the humorous sign THIS PAVILION IS STRICTLY FOR COMMUNITY BONDING ACTIVITIES ONLY (2015). Other highlights include Perimeter Walk (2013–24) with 550 postcards for a dollar each, and a series of calendars (2004–10) showcasing 1,001 vacant public space images. The exhibition also includes Cover (Versions) (2009–), inspired by Clarice Lispector, and wraps up with Monument to the people we've conveniently forgotten (I hate you) (2008), featuring a mound of a million blacked-out business cards. Near the exit, The Library of Unread Books (2016–), created with Renée Staal, adds a unique touch. Curator Kathleen Ditzig has written an accompanying essay, while Yvonne Wang reviews the exhibit for ArtAsiaPacific.