The Private Museum’s latest exhibition unveils the deeply personal art collection of gallerist Richard Koh, offering visitors and viewers a profound exploration of memory, emotion, and contemporary art
In a city celebrated for its dynamic art scene, The Private Museum adds yet another compelling chapter to Singapore’s artistic narrative with Of Dreams and Contemplation: I am All but a Story – Selections from the Collection of Richard Koh. Running from 9 January to 9 March 2025, this exhibition also forms part of Singapore Art Week 2025, offering a rare glimpse into the private collection of one of Southeast Asia’s most influential gallerists.
Richard Koh, founder of Richard Koh Fine Art, is a name synonymous with the championing of contemporary Southeast Asian art. With gallery spaces in not just Singapore, but also Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, Koh has spent over two decades nurturing artists and fostering regional dialogues. This exhibition, however, turns the spotlight inward, inviting audiences into the deeply personal world of Koh’s private collection.
This marks the second time Koh’s collection graces The Private Museum. The first, in 2019, introduced visitors to 33 pieces, carefully curated over more than 20 years. The upcoming exhibition expands on this, revealing new selections that reflect Koh’s ever-evolving relationship with contemporary art and his penchant for pieces that resonate on a profoundly emotional level.
At the heart of Koh’s collection is a narrative he calls “Landscapes of Memory”, where each work is imbued with personal significance. From minimalist abstracts to evocative figurative pieces, the collection spans a spectrum of styles, unified by their ability to evoke quiet yet profound moments in Koh’s life. Highlights include works like The Green (2008) by Natee Utarit, a meditative piece in oil on canvas, and Flying birdies in my brain No.1 (2022) by Ben Puah, which captures whimsical introspection through acrylic.
The collaboration between The Private Museum and Richard Koh Fine Art underscores Koh’s commitment to bridging the private and public spheres of art appreciation. Founded by philanthropist Daniel Teo in 2010, The Private Museum serves as an intimate space that fosters meaningful engagement with art, aligning perfectly with Koh’s vision of making collecting accessible and approachable.
For Koh, sharing this collection is not just an act of showcasing, but a call to rethink the act of collecting itself. “These works hold profound emotions, each marking significant or quiet moments in the seasons of my life,” Koh says. “I hope this exhibition inspires audiences to find their own entry points into the world of art collecting, viewing it through lenses of accessibility, affinity, and awe.”
Of Dreams and Contemplation promises to be more than an exhibition—it’s an invitation to step into the mind of a collector, exploring the interplay between personal narrative and artistic expression. Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this exhibition offers an enriching journey through the art of memory and emotion.
