25 Feb – 30 Jul 2023
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Daily: |
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| Singapore Residents: Adult: S$20 Concession: S$16 |
Tourists: Adult: S$23 Concession: S$18 |
Sneakertopia is a colourful, larger-than-life sneaker and street culture exhibition that celebrates the art and history of sneakers and much, much more!
Born on the streets, sneaker culture has since been driven by artists, athletes and celebrities who express their creativity and passion through sneakers and their designs. Whether status symbols or markers of identity, there is no denying the role of sneakers in defining pop and street culture today but this phenomenon is about more than just sports, hip-hop and fashion.
The 2023 Asian and Southeast Asian premiere of Sneakertopia at ArtScience Museum brings together local and international artists, creatives, contributors and brands in a striking exhibition that features over 100 limited-edition sneakers alongside murals, installations, designs and original artworks. These presentations illustrate crossovers into related street culture genres of art, entertainment and technology.
Organised by SPACElogic with partners SL Experiences and Gushcloud International, in collaboration with ArtScience Museum, Singapore, this exhibition was created by Emmy award-winning producer, Steve Harris, and Silicon Valley tech entrepreneur, Steve Brown, who are excited to share their love for iconic footwear with audiences around the world.
Join us on a tour of Sneakertopia, every Wednesday at 4pm! For more details and to pre-book a slot, please visit our Tours page.
Born on the streets, sneaker culture has since been driven by artists, athletes and celebrities who express their creativity and passion through sneakers and their designs. Whether status symbols or markers of identity, there is no denying the role of sneakers in defining pop and street culture today. This phenomenon goes far beyond sports, hip-hop and fashion.
David Kaul, The Sneaker Storyboard, 2019. Image courtesy of Sneakertopia.
Born on the streets, sneaker culture has since been driven by artists, athletes and celebrities who express their creativity and passion through sneakers and their designs. Whether status symbols or markers of identity, there is no denying the role of sneakers in defining pop and street culture today. This phenomenon goes far beyond sports, hip-hop and fashion.
Ben Fearnley, Sneakertopia video, 2019. Image courtesy of Sneakertopia.
Born on the streets, sneaker culture has since been driven by artists, athletes and celebrities who express their creativity and passion through sneakers and their designs. Whether status symbols or markers of identity, there is no denying the role of sneakers in defining pop and street culture today. This phenomenon goes far beyond sports, hip-hop and fashion.
tobyato, tobyato sneaker stone lions, 2023.
Born on the streets, sneaker culture has since been driven by artists, athletes and celebrities who express their creativity and passion through sneakers and their designs. Whether status symbols or markers of identity, there is no denying the role of sneakers in defining pop and street culture today. This phenomenon goes far beyond sports, hip-hop and fashion.
No matter where they are in the world, creatives seek out like-minded individuals. Together, they form organic, supportive communities that generate new ideas and spark change. This spirit of collaboration and sharing of ideas has always been important to the artists, designers, athletes, brands and celebrities who come together to define sneaker and street culture.
Embodying a do-it-yourself attitude and an outpouring of expression into the arts, this zone shines a spotlight on two creatives based in Singapore, soph O and Kristal Melson. These artists share an appreciation of subcultures: fashion, street art and skateboarding, and have worked with sneaker brands including Vans, adidas and Nike.
This collaboration represents both creatives’ responses to street culture. The works of soph O suggest a new approach to graffiti by collaging materials such as wood and paper together in abstract forms. Melson’s work highlights how sneakers and streetwear tend to be perceived as a ‘boy’s club’ and focuses instead on strong female characters.
Kristal Melson artworks, installation view, 2023.
No matter where they are in the world, creatives seek out like-minded individuals. Together, they form organic, supportive communities that generate new ideas and spark change. This spirit of collaboration and sharing of ideas has always been important to the artists, designers, athletes, brands and celebrities who come together to define sneaker and street culture.
Embodying a do-it-yourself attitude and an outpouring of expression into the arts, this zone shines a spotlight on two creatives based in Singapore, soph O and Kristal Melson. These artists share an appreciation of subcultures: fashion, street art and skateboarding, and have worked with sneaker brands including Vans, adidas and Nike.
This collaboration represents both creatives’ responses to street culture. The works of soph O suggest a new approach to graffiti by collaging materials such as wood and paper together in abstract forms. Melson’s work highlights how sneakers and streetwear tend to be perceived as a ‘boy’s club’ and focuses instead on strong female characters.
soph O artworks, installation view, 2023.
No matter where they are in the world, creatives seek out like-minded individuals. Together, they form organic, supportive communities that generate new ideas and spark change. This spirit of collaboration and sharing of ideas has always been important to the artists, designers, athletes, brands and celebrities who come together to define sneaker and street culture.
Embodying a do-it-yourself attitude and an outpouring of expression into the arts, this zone shines a spotlight on two creatives based in Singapore, soph O and Kristal Melson. These artists share an appreciation of subcultures: fashion, street art and skateboarding, and have worked with sneaker brands including Vans, adidas and Nike.
This collaboration represents both creatives’ responses to street culture. The works of soph O suggest a new approach to graffiti by collaging materials such as wood and paper together in abstract forms. Melson’s work highlights how sneakers and streetwear tend to be perceived as a ‘boy’s club’ and focuses instead on strong female characters.
Sneaker culture has its deepest roots in the sports industry. In the basketball arena, brands would develop signature shoe deals with top players to promote their products across the country. The Converse team, otherwise known as the All Stars, employed Charles ‘Chuck’ Taylor in 1922 as both coach and salesman for the brand—making the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star sneaker the first celebrity-endorsed athletic shoe.
Since then, collaborations between professional athletes, designers and brands have pushed the boundaries of sneaker design. Intensive research and development, use of the latest technologies and innovative materials has enabled new features and footwear lines that enhance both performance and style.
The Playground pays homage to some of the key sports heroes in sneaker history, beginning with LeBron James, Serena Williams and Michael Jordan represented here on their very own basketball and tennis courts. Singapore streetwear scene legend, Mr. Sabotage, demonstrates his love for sneaker collecting and customising in two never-before-seen showcases. Skateboarding features strongly too, with skate icons such as Tony Hawk and his protégé, Lizzie Armanto, who has become a trailblazer in women’s skateboarding.
Jonas Never, KICKflip, 2019 and Steve Harris, Giant Skateboard, 2019.
Sneaker culture has its deepest roots in the sports industry. In the basketball arena, brands would develop signature shoe deals with top players to promote their products across the country. The Converse team, otherwise known as the All Stars, employed Charles ‘Chuck’ Taylor in 1922 as both coach and salesman for the brand—making the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star sneaker the first celebrity-endorsed athletic shoe.
Since then, collaborations between professional athletes, designers and brands have pushed the boundaries of sneaker design. Intensive research and development, use of the latest technologies and innovative materials has enabled new features and footwear lines that enhance both performance and style.
The Playground pays homage to some of the key sports heroes in sneaker history, beginning with LeBron James, Serena Williams and Michael Jordan represented here on their very own basketball and tennis courts. Singapore streetwear scene legend, Mr. Sabotage, demonstrates his love for sneaker collecting and customising in two never-before-seen showcases. Skateboarding features strongly too, with skate icons such as Tony Hawk and his protégé, Lizzie Armanto, who has become a trailblazer in women’s skateboarding.
James Haunt, Posterised, 2019. Image courtesy of Sneakertopia.
Sneaker culture has its deepest roots in the sports industry. In the basketball arena, brands would develop signature shoe deals with top players to promote their products across the country. The Converse team, otherwise known as the All Stars, employed Charles ‘Chuck’ Taylor in 1922 as both coach and salesman for the brand—making the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star sneaker the first celebrity-endorsed athletic shoe.
Since then, collaborations between professional athletes, designers and brands have pushed the boundaries of sneaker design. Intensive research and development, use of the latest technologies and innovative materials has enabled new features and footwear lines that enhance both performance and style.
The Playground pays homage to some of the key sports heroes in sneaker history, beginning with LeBron James, Serena Williams and Michael Jordan represented here on their very own basketball and tennis courts. Singapore streetwear scene legend, Mr. Sabotage, demonstrates his love for sneaker collecting and customising in two never-before-seen showcases. Skateboarding features strongly too, with skate icons such as Tony Hawk and his protégé, Lizzie Armanto, who has become a trailblazer in women’s skateboarding.
Mr. Sabotage, collection of Air Jordan 1s, customised sneakers, collaboration sneakers, Korean-manufactured soles and workshop tools, 2023.
Sneaker culture has its deepest roots in the sports industry. In the basketball arena, brands would develop signature shoe deals with top players to promote their products across the country. The Converse team, otherwise known as the All Stars, employed Charles ‘Chuck’ Taylor in 1922 as both coach and salesman for the brand—making the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star sneaker the first celebrity-endorsed athletic shoe.
Since then, collaborations between professional athletes, designers and brands have pushed the boundaries of sneaker design. Intensive research and development, use of the latest technologies and innovative materials has enabled new features and footwear lines that enhance both performance and style.
The Playground pays homage to some of the key sports heroes in sneaker history, beginning with LeBron James, Serena Williams and Michael Jordan represented here on their very own basketball and tennis courts. Singapore streetwear scene legend, Mr. Sabotage, demonstrates his love for sneaker collecting and customising in two never-before-seen showcases. Skateboarding features strongly too, with skate icons such as Tony Hawk and his protégé, Lizzie Armanto, who has become a trailblazer in women’s skateboarding.
The Backlot showcases how sneaker culture has infiltrated the entertainment industry through films, television series and other media. The resulting mass reach has allowed sneakers to transition from being part of various subcultures into a truly global cultural phenomenon. Video games are also fuelling a new generation of ‘sneakerheads’—with players designing, wearing and selling their own digital shoes as virtual currency. The term ‘sneakerheads’ is used to refer to individuals who are passionate about sneakers. They collect and trade their sneakers or flaunt their sneakers as fashion statements.
Hollywood movies such as Do the Right Thing (1989) and Space Jam (1996) have consistently served to create trends and generate hype for existing sneakers, streetwear and brands. Some sought-after concept shoes from films have even become a reality, such as the futuristic ‘kicks’ that Marty McFly wore in Back to the Future II (1989) directed by Robert Zemeckis. ‘Kicks’ is a slang term most often used to refer to sneakers or sports shoes.
Renowned American shoe designer, Tinker Hatfield, designed the Nike MAG for Back to the Future II—imagining a sneaker that would be viable and ready-to-wear almost 30 years in the future. The script contained the idea of ‘magnetic levitation technology’, which was hinted at in the sneaker name with the letters ‘MAG’. This imagined technology would allow the time-travelling lead character to firmly grip onto his hoverboard without falling off. The once-imaginary Nike MAG with its self-tying ‘power laces’ was eventually brought into existence and released to the public in 2011 and 2016 — marking one of Nike’s most popular releases in history.
McFlyy, Back to the Future IV, 2019. Image courtesy of Sneakertopia.
The Backlot showcases how sneaker culture has infiltrated the entertainment industry through films, television series and other media. The resulting mass reach has allowed sneakers to transition from being part of various subcultures into a truly global cultural phenomenon. Video games are also fuelling a new generation of ‘sneakerheads’—with players designing, wearing and selling their own digital shoes as virtual currency. The term ‘sneakerheads’ is used to refer to individuals who are passionate about sneakers. They collect and trade their sneakers or flaunt their sneakers as fashion statements.
Hollywood movies such as Do the Right Thing (1989) and Space Jam (1996) have consistently served to create trends and generate hype for existing sneakers, streetwear and brands. Some sought-after concept shoes from films have even become a reality, such as the futuristic ‘kicks’ that Marty McFly wore in Back to the Future II (1989) directed by Robert Zemeckis. ‘Kicks’ is a slang term most often used to refer to sneakers or sports shoes.
Renowned American shoe designer, Tinker Hatfield, designed the Nike MAG for Back to the Future II—imagining a sneaker that would be viable and ready-to-wear almost 30 years in the future. The script contained the idea of ‘magnetic levitation technology’, which was hinted at in the sneaker name with the letters ‘MAG’. This imagined technology would allow the time-travelling lead character to firmly grip onto his hoverboard without falling off. The once-imaginary Nike MAG with its self-tying ‘power laces’ was eventually brought into existence and released to the public in 2011 and 2016 — marking one of Nike’s most popular releases in history.
Tommii Lim, MANDO, 2023.
The Backlot showcases how sneaker culture has infiltrated the entertainment industry through films, television series and other media. The resulting mass reach has allowed sneakers to transition from being part of various subcultures into a truly global cultural phenomenon. Video games are also fuelling a new generation of ‘sneakerheads’—with players designing, wearing and selling their own digital shoes as virtual currency. The term ‘sneakerheads’ is used to refer to individuals who are passionate about sneakers. They collect and trade their sneakers or flaunt their sneakers as fashion statements.
Hollywood movies such as Do the Right Thing (1989) and Space Jam (1996) have consistently served to create trends and generate hype for existing sneakers, streetwear and brands. Some sought-after concept shoes from films have even become a reality, such as the futuristic ‘kicks’ that Marty McFly wore in Back to the Future II (1989) directed by Robert Zemeckis. ‘Kicks’ is a slang term most often used to refer to sneakers or sports shoes.
Renowned American shoe designer, Tinker Hatfield, designed the Nike MAG for Back to the Future II—imagining a sneaker that would be viable and ready-to-wear almost 30 years in the future. The script contained the idea of ‘magnetic levitation technology’, which was hinted at in the sneaker name with the letters ‘MAG’. This imagined technology would allow the time-travelling lead character to firmly grip onto his hoverboard without falling off. The once-imaginary Nike MAG with its self-tying ‘power laces’ was eventually brought into existence and released to the public in 2011 and 2016 — marking one of Nike’s most popular releases in history.
PHUNK, Return of the Condor Heroes, 2023.
The Backlot showcases how sneaker culture has infiltrated the entertainment industry through films, television series and other media. The resulting mass reach has allowed sneakers to transition from being part of various subcultures into a truly global cultural phenomenon. Video games are also fuelling a new generation of ‘sneakerheads’—with players designing, wearing and selling their own digital shoes as virtual currency. The term ‘sneakerheads’ is used to refer to individuals who are passionate about sneakers. They collect and trade their sneakers or flaunt their sneakers as fashion statements.
Hollywood movies such as Do the Right Thing (1989) and Space Jam (1996) have consistently served to create trends and generate hype for existing sneakers, streetwear and brands. Some sought-after concept shoes from films have even become a reality, such as the futuristic ‘kicks’ that Marty McFly wore in Back to the Future II (1989) directed by Robert Zemeckis. ‘Kicks’ is a slang term most often used to refer to sneakers or sports shoes.
Renowned American shoe designer, Tinker Hatfield, designed the Nike MAG for Back to the Future II—imagining a sneaker that would be viable and ready-to-wear almost 30 years in the future. The script contained the idea of ‘magnetic levitation technology’, which was hinted at in the sneaker name with the letters ‘MAG’. This imagined technology would allow the time-travelling lead character to firmly grip onto his hoverboard without falling off. The once-imaginary Nike MAG with its self-tying ‘power laces’ was eventually brought into existence and released to the public in 2011 and 2016 — marking one of Nike’s most popular releases in history.
Futura, Landing Point, 2018.
The Backlot showcases how sneaker culture has infiltrated the entertainment industry through films, television series and other media. The resulting mass reach has allowed sneakers to transition from being part of various subcultures into a truly global cultural phenomenon. Video games are also fuelling a new generation of ‘sneakerheads’—with players designing, wearing and selling their own digital shoes as virtual currency. The term ‘sneakerheads’ is used to refer to individuals who are passionate about sneakers. They collect and trade their sneakers or flaunt their sneakers as fashion statements.
Hollywood movies such as Do the Right Thing (1989) and Space Jam (1996) have consistently served to create trends and generate hype for existing sneakers, streetwear and brands. Some sought-after concept shoes from films have even become a reality, such as the futuristic ‘kicks’ that Marty McFly wore in Back to the Future II (1989) directed by Robert Zemeckis. ‘Kicks’ is a slang term most often used to refer to sneakers or sports shoes.
Renowned American shoe designer, Tinker Hatfield, designed the Nike MAG for Back to the Future II—imagining a sneaker that would be viable and ready-to-wear almost 30 years in the future. The script contained the idea of ‘magnetic levitation technology’, which was hinted at in the sneaker name with the letters ‘MAG’. This imagined technology would allow the time-travelling lead character to firmly grip onto his hoverboard without falling off. The once-imaginary Nike MAG with its self-tying ‘power laces’ was eventually brought into existence and released to the public in 2011 and 2016 — marking one of Nike’s most popular releases in history.
Jahan Loh, Dragon Chasers, 2007.
The Backlot showcases how sneaker culture has infiltrated the entertainment industry through films, television series and other media. The resulting mass reach has allowed sneakers to transition from being part of various subcultures into a truly global cultural phenomenon. Video games are also fuelling a new generation of ‘sneakerheads’—with players designing, wearing and selling their own digital shoes as virtual currency. The term ‘sneakerheads’ is used to refer to individuals who are passionate about sneakers. They collect and trade their sneakers or flaunt their sneakers as fashion statements.
Hollywood movies such as Do the Right Thing (1989) and Space Jam (1996) have consistently served to create trends and generate hype for existing sneakers, streetwear and brands. Some sought-after concept shoes from films have even become a reality, such as the futuristic ‘kicks’ that Marty McFly wore in Back to the Future II (1989) directed by Robert Zemeckis. ‘Kicks’ is a slang term most often used to refer to sneakers or sports shoes.
Renowned American shoe designer, Tinker Hatfield, designed the Nike MAG for Back to the Future II—imagining a sneaker that would be viable and ready-to-wear almost 30 years in the future. The script contained the idea of ‘magnetic levitation technology’, which was hinted at in the sneaker name with the letters ‘MAG’. This imagined technology would allow the time-travelling lead character to firmly grip onto his hoverboard without falling off. The once-imaginary Nike MAG with its self-tying ‘power laces’ was eventually brought into existence and released to the public in 2011 and 2016 — marking one of Nike’s most popular releases in history.
McFlyy, series of parody movie posters, 2019.
The Backlot showcases how sneaker culture has infiltrated the entertainment industry through films, television series and other media. The resulting mass reach has allowed sneakers to transition from being part of various subcultures into a truly global cultural phenomenon. Video games are also fuelling a new generation of ‘sneakerheads’—with players designing, wearing and selling their own digital shoes as virtual currency. The term ‘sneakerheads’ is used to refer to individuals who are passionate about sneakers. They collect and trade their sneakers or flaunt their sneakers as fashion statements.
Hollywood movies such as Do the Right Thing (1989) and Space Jam (1996) have consistently served to create trends and generate hype for existing sneakers, streetwear and brands. Some sought-after concept shoes from films have even become a reality, such as the futuristic ‘kicks’ that Marty McFly wore in Back to the Future II (1989) directed by Robert Zemeckis. ‘Kicks’ is a slang term most often used to refer to sneakers or sports shoes.
Renowned American shoe designer, Tinker Hatfield, designed the Nike MAG for Back to the Future II—imagining a sneaker that would be viable and ready-to-wear almost 30 years in the future. The script contained the idea of ‘magnetic levitation technology’, which was hinted at in the sneaker name with the letters ‘MAG’. This imagined technology would allow the time-travelling lead character to firmly grip onto his hoverboard without falling off. The once-imaginary Nike MAG with its self-tying ‘power laces’ was eventually brought into existence and released to the public in 2011 and 2016 — marking one of Nike’s most popular releases in history.
Smoluk, The Super Large Superstar, 2023.
The Art + Sole Gallery profiles artists who have infused their work with an extraordinary passion for sneakers. New York in the 80s saw the rise of sneaker culture and a new generation of artists making waves in the international art scene. For many artists of the time, the sneaker came to serve as both a canvas and an inspiration for the creation of artworks.
Spread across two zones, the first part of Art + Sole focuses on sustainability—with creatives Smoluk, Aeropalmics and Josiah Chua repurposing and upcycling elements like cardboard, fabrics and sneaker parts to generate new works. These works prompt reflection on contemporary society, patterns of mass consumption and hype culture.
It cannot be ignored that sneaker production contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions and that many brands are increasingly looking to adopt more eco-friendly and innovative practices including the use of recycled materials. Sustainable alternatives to existing materials are also being developed, such as cactus leather and other biodegradable components.
Aeropalmics, Main Character, 2023.
The Art + Sole Gallery profiles artists who have infused their work with an extraordinary passion for sneakers. New York in the 80s saw the rise of sneaker culture and a new generation of artists making waves in the international art scene. For many artists of the time, the sneaker came to serve as both a canvas and an inspiration for the creation of artworks.
Spread across two zones, the first part of Art + Sole focuses on sustainability—with creatives Smoluk, Aeropalmics and Josiah Chua repurposing and upcycling elements like cardboard, fabrics and sneaker parts to generate new works. These works prompt reflection on contemporary society, patterns of mass consumption and hype culture.
It cannot be ignored that sneaker production contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions and that many brands are increasingly looking to adopt more eco-friendly and innovative practices including the use of recycled materials. Sustainable alternatives to existing materials are also being developed, such as cactus leather and other biodegradable components.
Josiah Chua, DREAM 777, 2023.
The Art + Sole Gallery profiles artists who have infused their work with an extraordinary passion for sneakers. New York in the 80s saw the rise of sneaker culture and a new generation of artists making waves in the international art scene. For many artists of the time, the sneaker came to serve as both a canvas and an inspiration for the creation of artworks.
Spread across two zones, the first part of Art + Sole focuses on sustainability—with creatives Smoluk, Aeropalmics and Josiah Chua repurposing and upcycling elements like cardboard, fabrics and sneaker parts to generate new works. These works prompt reflection on contemporary society, patterns of mass consumption and hype culture.
It cannot be ignored that sneaker production contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions and that many brands are increasingly looking to adopt more eco-friendly and innovative practices including the use of recycled materials. Sustainable alternatives to existing materials are also being developed, such as cactus leather and other biodegradable components.
In the 80s, New York was clamping down on street art and graffiti, declaring itself ‘graffiti-free’ by 1989. Street artists began to paint in the outskirts of the city and several entered the world of fine arts via galleries and even museum presentations. The exhibition, New York/New Wave curated by Diego Cortez at MoMA PS1 in 1981 featured works by Futura and Jean-Michel Basquiat alongside Andy Warhol and Robert Mapplethorpe. In downtown Manhattan and the Lower East Side, street artists such as Keith Haring, Rammellzee, CRASH, Lady Pink, Dondi and Lee Quiñones set the stage for a global repositioning of street art as a form of contemporary art.
The second Art + Sole zone merges sneaker culture with street art, offering progressive takes on graffiti carried forward by a new generation of artists. Mimi Yoon makes a social statement, embracing femininity and the strength of women; whilst Juls engages in mark-making and automatic drawing, taking references from tags and graffiti writing.
Juls, Altered Markings, Dooog, Caca Vide, Stuck Skate Klab, Ghost, Abracadabra, 2023.
In the 80s, New York was clamping down on street art and graffiti, declaring itself ‘graffiti-free’ by 1989. Street artists began to paint in the outskirts of the city and several entered the world of fine arts via galleries and even museum presentations. The exhibition, New York/New Wave curated by Diego Cortez at MoMA PS1 in 1981 featured works by Futura and Jean-Michel Basquiat alongside Andy Warhol and Robert Mapplethorpe. In downtown Manhattan and the Lower East Side, street artists such as Keith Haring, Rammellzee, CRASH, Lady Pink, Dondi and Lee Quiñones set the stage for a global repositioning of street art as a form of contemporary art.
The second Art + Sole zone merges sneaker culture with street art, offering progressive takes on graffiti carried forward by a new generation of artists. Mimi Yoon makes a social statement, embracing femininity and the strength of women; whilst Juls engages in mark-making and automatic drawing, taking references from tags and graffiti writing.
Timothy Curtis, Floating Untied to the Ground No. 1, 2019.
In the 80s, New York was clamping down on street art and graffiti, declaring itself ‘graffiti-free’ by 1989. Street artists began to paint in the outskirts of the city and several entered the world of fine arts via galleries and even museum presentations. The exhibition, New York/New Wave curated by Diego Cortez at MoMA PS1 in 1981 featured works by Futura and Jean-Michel Basquiat alongside Andy Warhol and Robert Mapplethorpe. In downtown Manhattan and the Lower East Side, street artists such as Keith Haring, Rammellzee, CRASH, Lady Pink, Dondi and Lee Quiñones set the stage for a global repositioning of street art as a form of contemporary art.
The second Art + Sole zone merges sneaker culture with street art, offering progressive takes on graffiti carried forward by a new generation of artists. Mimi Yoon makes a social statement, embracing femininity and the strength of women; whilst Juls engages in mark-making and automatic drawing, taking references from tags and graffiti writing.
Mimi Yoon, Give A Girl the Right Shoes and She Can Conquer the World (detail), 2019. Image courtesy of Sneakertopia.
In the 80s, New York was clamping down on street art and graffiti, declaring itself ‘graffiti-free’ by 1989. Street artists began to paint in the outskirts of the city and several entered the world of fine arts via galleries and even museum presentations. The exhibition, New York/New Wave curated by Diego Cortez at MoMA PS1 in 1981 featured works by Futura and Jean-Michel Basquiat alongside Andy Warhol and Robert Mapplethorpe. In downtown Manhattan and the Lower East Side, street artists such as Keith Haring, Rammellzee, CRASH, Lady Pink, Dondi and Lee Quiñones set the stage for a global repositioning of street art as a form of contemporary art.
The second Art + Sole zone merges sneaker culture with street art, offering progressive takes on graffiti carried forward by a new generation of artists. Mimi Yoon makes a social statement, embracing femininity and the strength of women; whilst Juls engages in mark-making and automatic drawing, taking references from tags and graffiti writing.
Over time, unique street art scenes have developed across cities in Southeast Asia, with painted walls and temporary artworks appearing in Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore. In the 90s and 2000s, prominent street art crews in Singapore included Zinc Nite Crew, Operation Artkore, ProjectBurnerz and RSCLS.
The rise of street culture in Singapore was established through communities of multi-talented creatives and the formation of regional brands with distinctive styles. Similar to other locations around the world, the Singapore sneaker scene also melded with street culture—with sneakers becoming a requisite part of the outfits worn by artists and creatives as they worked. As opposed to the protected sneakers of selected collectors that are kept in sneaker vaults, the sneakers of artists are usually well-worn and full of character.
Artworks in this gallery take visitors into The Street, in an overwhelming display that resembles the flurry and commotion of city streets and the inescapable visual noise of our urban spaces.
Sam Lo ‘SKL0’, A Myna Rebellion, 2023.
Over time, unique street art scenes have developed across cities in Southeast Asia, with painted walls and temporary artworks appearing in Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore. In the 90s and 2000s, prominent street art crews in Singapore included Zinc Nite Crew, Operation Artkore, ProjectBurnerz and RSCLS.
The rise of street culture in Singapore was established through communities of multi-talented creatives and the formation of regional brands with distinctive styles. Similar to other locations around the world, the Singapore sneaker scene also melded with street culture—with sneakers becoming a requisite part of the outfits worn by artists and creatives as they worked. As opposed to the protected sneakers of selected collectors that are kept in sneaker vaults, the sneakers of artists are usually well-worn and full of character.
Artworks in this gallery take visitors into The Street, in an overwhelming display that resembles the flurry and commotion of city streets and the inescapable visual noise of our urban spaces.
HURUHARA, Regardless, the Streets are HERE, 2023.
Over time, unique street art scenes have developed across cities in Southeast Asia, with painted walls and temporary artworks appearing in Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore. In the 90s and 2000s, prominent street art crews in Singapore included Zinc Nite Crew, Operation Artkore, ProjectBurnerz and RSCLS.
The rise of street culture in Singapore was established through communities of multi-talented creatives and the formation of regional brands with distinctive styles. Similar to other locations around the world, the Singapore sneaker scene also melded with street culture—with sneakers becoming a requisite part of the outfits worn by artists and creatives as they worked. As opposed to the protected sneakers of selected collectors that are kept in sneaker vaults, the sneakers of artists are usually well-worn and full of character.
Artworks in this gallery take visitors into The Street, in an overwhelming display that resembles the flurry and commotion of city streets and the inescapable visual noise of our urban spaces.
The Frugal Pop-Up, installation view, 2023.
Frugal, is a parody of the hype that surrounds the streetwear world and a play on the lifestyle brand, Supreme. Supreme originally began as a small skate shop where youths would hang out, and the brand eventually moved on to create dedicated clothing lines and collaborate with artists. In recent years, Supreme has been catapulted into one of the biggest streetwear brands in the world with collections including baseball bats, bricks and pillboxes, all available at a hefty price. Wrapping the interiors of a Singaporean Housing Development Board flat in Frugal branding, ordinary objects and furnishings in this zone have taken on highly inflated price tags.
Adam Fu and Steve Harris, The Dream Closet, 2019.
The Dream Room is a zone of illusions and visual tricks, that celebrate the sneaker in all its glory. It features works by Michael Murphy, Ben Fearnley, Adam Fu and Steve Harris and spotlights a collection of rare sneakers by Limited Edt founder, Mandeep Chopra.
Sneakers are now perceived as objects of desire and symbols of luxury, with rare kicks viewed as assets for investment. With the value of sneakers skyrocketing, collectors often build vaults to house these prized possessions. In 2019, auction house, Sotheby’s—known for selling fine art, jewellery and applied art—held its first auction dedicated solely to sneakers. In the same year, a 1972 Nike Waffle Racing Flat ‘Moon Shoe’ was auctioned for US$437,500. Enter 2021, when Sotheby’s went on to sell a pair of Nike Air Yeezy Samples worn by Kanye West at the Grammy Awards in 2008 for US$1.8 million—setting a record for the most expensive sneakers ever sold.
Michael Murphy, AIR, 2019.
The Dream Room is a zone of illusions and visual tricks, that celebrate the sneaker in all its glory. It features works by Michael Murphy, Ben Fearnley, Adam Fu and Steve Harris and spotlights a collection of rare sneakers by Limited Edt founder, Mandeep Chopra.
Sneakers are now perceived as objects of desire and symbols of luxury, with rare kicks viewed as assets for investment. With the value of sneakers skyrocketing, collectors often build vaults to house these prized possessions. In 2019, auction house, Sotheby’s—known for selling fine art, jewellery and applied art—held its first auction dedicated solely to sneakers. In the same year, a 1972 Nike Waffle Racing Flat ‘Moon Shoe’ was auctioned for US$437,500. Enter 2021, when Sotheby’s went on to sell a pair of Nike Air Yeezy Samples worn by Kanye West at the Grammy Awards in 2008 for US$1.8 million—setting a record for the most expensive sneakers ever sold.
Mandeep Chopra, sneaker collection, 2023.
The Dream Room is a zone of illusions and visual tricks, that celebrate the sneaker in all its glory. It features works by Michael Murphy, Ben Fearnley, Adam Fu and Steve Harris and spotlights a collection of rare sneakers by Limited Edt founder, Mandeep Chopra.
Sneakers are now perceived as objects of desire and symbols of luxury, with rare kicks viewed as assets for investment. With the value of sneakers skyrocketing, collectors often build vaults to house these prized possessions. In 2019, auction house, Sotheby’s—known for selling fine art, jewellery and applied art—held its first auction dedicated solely to sneakers. In the same year, a 1972 Nike Waffle Racing Flat ‘Moon Shoe’ was auctioned for US$437,500. Enter 2021, when Sotheby’s went on to sell a pair of Nike Air Yeezy Samples worn by Kanye West at the Grammy Awards in 2008 for US$1.8 million—setting a record for the most expensive sneakers ever sold.
A Walk in Time mural by Tell Your Children
This mural contains six famous personalities wearing iconic sneakers, with each representing a different subculture.
Conceived in collaboration with Singapore-based creative studio, Tell Your Children (TYC), this Activity Space offers visitors the chance to explore the rise and impact of sneaker culture in the past, present and future.
Looking to the past, an interactive mural features six famous personalities wearing iconic sneakers—with each representing different subcultures.
Moving into the present, visitors can showcase their individual and unique style by participating in their very own sneaker photoshoot! Each image is added to a growing digital archive of sneaker images, which serves as a record of footwear fashion choices in Singapore today.
Fast forward to the future, visitors will be able to explore new ways of looking at sneakers. Innovations in sneaker design must now include considerations such as sustainability and renewability. These prototypes of future sneakers use a range of recycled materials in their creation and inspire creative thinking through making.
Join masterclasses led by Tell Your Children, to deconstruct and rebuild sneakers of the future.
Take A Sneak Pic!
Photoshoots are not just reserved for people, they are just as ideal for sneakers. Visitors can express their unique style in this interactive activity by taking a ‘sneak pic’ of their kicks. Each image stands a chance to be featured on this website! See if your sneakers are featured at the link below.
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Masterclass: Sneaker Collage with Tell Your Children
What is the future of sneakers? Masterclasses led by Tell Your Children allow participants to build their own futuristic sneakers using recycled materials, allowing for creative thinking through making.
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Inkten ‘Nadirah’ Razak, Twin Vision, Synthesis, Cosmologic, From Here, 2020 - 2022.
The sneaker industry is constantly innovating and engaging with new technologies, as brands move towards increased sustainability, performance and accessibility. adidas, for example, developed the Stan Smith Mylo, a sneaker that uses a mushroom-based fabric as an eco-friendly alternative to leather. Nike released its first hands-free shoe, the Go FlyEase, which has a heel that angles open such that one can step easily into the shoe. Sneakers have entered the metaverse, with RTFKT Studios designing sneaker NFTs that feature colour transformations and futuristic elements. RTFKT is an organization that combines NFTs, game engines, Augmented Reality and other technologies to create unique sneakers and virtual artifacts.
This zone introduces four creatives whose practices are intertwined with technology and street culture. Nadirah ‘Inkten’ Razak—visual artist and co-founder of Ink and Clog Studio—moved from painting on the streets to painting in Virtual Reality. Singaporean designer Pek Shun Ping presents collections from his 3D printed shoe brand, ALIVEFORM and a final pairing of works by fashion designer, Josiah Chua, and pioneer of European street art, Thierry Noir, reinforces the connections between sneakers, street art and contemporary culture.
ALIVEFORM, sneaker collection, 2023.
The sneaker industry is constantly innovating and engaging with new technologies, as brands move towards increased sustainability, performance and accessibility. adidas, for example, developed the Stan Smith Mylo, a sneaker that uses a mushroom-based fabric as an eco-friendly alternative to leather. Nike released its first hands-free shoe, the Go FlyEase, which has a heel that angles open such that one can step easily into the shoe. Sneakers have entered the metaverse, with RTFKT Studios designing sneaker NFTs that feature colour transformations and futuristic elements. RTFKT is an organization that combines NFTs, game engines, Augmented Reality and other technologies to create unique sneakers and virtual artifacts.
This zone introduces four creatives whose practices are intertwined with technology and street culture. Nadirah ‘Inkten’ Razak—visual artist and co-founder of Ink and Clog Studio—moved from painting on the streets to painting in Virtual Reality. Singaporean designer Pek Shun Ping presents collections from his 3D printed shoe brand, ALIVEFORM and a final pairing of works by fashion designer, Josiah Chua, and pioneer of European street art, Thierry Noir, reinforces the connections between sneakers, street art and contemporary culture.
Come celebrate the sneaker as a symbol for creativity and expression in this closing programme of Sneakertopia: Step Into Street Culture exhibition.
Step into the world of sneaker and street culture with one of Singapore’s youngest sneaker collector Mohammed IIhan, together with Education Specialist, Jing Yi.
Marvel at a selection of sneakers, including Ilhan’s best pairs out of the 60 that he presently owns and find out how sneakers can form one's identity and own unique style.
Watch the video in the link below from 26 Mar
Join our Education Specialists, Sue and Rayna, as they introduce you to sneaker culture in our exhibition Sneakertopia: Step Into Street Culture.
Through the works of selected Singaporean female artists in Sneakertopia, this virtual tour will have a strong focus on collaboration with the essence of culture and community as driving forces.
Watch the video in the link below from 16 Apr
Photoshoots are not just reserved for people, they are just as ideal for sneakers. Featured here is a growing digital archive of sneaker images collected from our visitors who have visited Sneakertopia. Visitors expressed their unique style in this interactive activity by taking a ‘sneak pic’ of their kicks from 25 February 2023.
See if your sneakers are featured at the link below!
Explore the roots of sneaker and street culture through the lens of cinema – from iconic blockbusters to indie titles, come take a closer peek at how films play such a pivotal role in fashion, style and sweet kicks.
Check out the films screening during the exhibition at the link below!
Exhibition entrance of Sneakertopia
Join us on our tours as we explore the influence and presence of sneakers in today’s pop and street culture. Get familiar with innovative sneaker design techniques and the work of local and regional street culture creatives, who view sneakers beyond sports, hip-hop and fashion.
English language tours are available at S$5 per participant. Same-day exhibition tickets will be required for the tour.
Booking details will be announced on our Tours page. Due to limited capacity, guests are encouraged to pre-book their slots online.
Mini Holiday Camp:
Zine Making 101
Take inspiration from Sneakertopia and express yourself by creating your own eight-page zine.
A zine (short for magazine) is a Do-It-Yourself (D.I.Y) publication, which can be easily made by anyone. Utilising provided magazine cut-outs, coloured paper and selected texts from Sneakertopia, tap on your creativity and craft your own unique zine.
Share the inspirations and thought processes behind your zine and listen to that of others too.
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Masterclass: Sneaker Collage with Tell Your Children
What is the future of sneakers? Build your own sneaker of the future using recycled materials provided and explore creative thinking through making. These masterclasses are led by Tell Your Children.
View details
SL Experiences is a one-stop Entertainment Design Entity which aims to bring the digital world offline and into larger-than-life reality through immersive entertainment experiences.
As a subsidiary under SPACElogic Group, the entity covers licensing, production, business models, partnerships, curation, sponsorships and operations. The aim is to craft and engineer the optimum experiential journey – not just for consumers but for all key partners and stakeholders. The stalwart ecosystem of their Entertainment Design Entity allows for cohesive collaboration with key brands and Intellectual Property owners, while safeguarding their brand integrity and core values.
Gushcloud International connects audiences and brands with influencers and content creators through representation and management, brand strategy, marketing and activation services, media production, sales and distribution, licensing and the co-creation of signature events. Their vision is to amplify positive values by becoming the world’s most influential talent-centric company in the marketing and entertainment space.
Feed your mind with new ideas and fresh insights by joining our community as a ArtScience Friend. Membership allows unlimited access to exhibitions and selected programmes.
Enjoy 30% off Adult Standard and Concession Standard tickets with your Sands LifeStyle membership. Only available for Single Exhibitions.
With every adult ticket, enjoy complimentary entry for up to four children under 12 years of age on Friday. Not valid during public holidays or Singapore school holidays.
Sip on the most-raved-about artisan Pour Over Coffee, made with Miracle Coffee's roasted, single-origin beans. Created exclusively for Singapore, Kaya Cloud is an Americano-style coffee topped with velvety fresh cream cap flavoured with kaya, complete with shaved gula melaka. Other Singapore-exclusive pastries and sandwiches include Rainbow Cloud, Kopi Choux Puff and Rainbow Roti.
Reimagine what’s “real” in our new permanent gallery, filled with virtual experiences from the minds of artists, scientists and curators.
Explore what’s happening at ArtScience Museum from exhibitions and events to workshops, screening, talks and guided tours.
