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What’s a part of Singapore’s history or urban landscape that you find particularly inspiring as a creative?
IB: As a creative, I believe our task is to recognise all forms of human ingenuity as inspiring. Singapore’s past and present surprise me daily—the pegs clipped to noodle bowls, the nail used to hang one’s kopi. I see creativity here rooted less in the costly introduction of robots to Din Tai Fung or smart lifts in a CBD skyscraper, and more in the improvisational impulses of everyday people. I’m fascinated by Singapore’s Malay origin story—their contributions to the island, their synergistic relationship with local fauna and flora—a life in greater synchrony with its surroundings, one that emanates naturally and organically from a people’s original connection to place.
Where in Singapore do you go to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and find creative inspiration?
IB: Creativity is nurtured by all things, everywhere. The idea that one must retreat to a deserted beach to find inspiration is as silly as it is counterproductive. It’s in the constant friction, exposure, and dialectic of life that creativity emerges. That said, I love my nature walks in East Coast Park or Sungei just as much as I enjoy Geylang markets and quiet CBD night walks. The city is teeming with natural and human-made beauty.
What’s a uniquely Singaporean experience that you think everyone should try at least once?
IB: Singapore nests many Singapores within it. As a young nation, defining what constitutes culturally relevant markers is a complex and ongoing act. Sometimes, I feel events like F1, a new iPhone launch, or a Taylor Swift concert are more culturally unifying than traditional festivities. But experiences like visiting Little India during Thaipusam, the Ramadan bazaar, or witnessing offerings and paper burnings during Ghost Month are deeply engaging. Still, nothing feels more universally Singaporean to me than a packed hawker centre at peak hour on a weekend—or catching a sunset at East Coast Lagoon, coconut water in hand, beside a rowdy group of Malay, Chinese, and Indian uncles. Speaking to pioneer Singaporeans—taxi drivers, wet market vendors, coffee shop regulars—who’ve given their all to building this nation, ranks equally high.
Where are your favourite places to eat (besides your own restaurants) that we won’t find in guidebooks?
IB: Ting Heng Eating House is my go-to comfort spot after a long week—it’s open late and always delivers. I love local food and explore the city constantly. Recently, I’ve been enjoying Ru Ji Kitchen’s bak chor mee, and I was genuinely devastated when the wet Hokkien mee stall at Original Serangoon closed down. Lastly, one should eat as much South Indian food in Singapore as possible—New Woodlands is my favourite all-rounder.
For a night out on the town and to let your hair down, what would be your recommendation?
IB:I have no hair ◡̈ but my favourite nights out usually happen at one of the city’s many wonderful cocktail bars. Live Twice ranks high—it has great vibes and serves the best vesper in town.
ART SG 2026 City Guides: The Art of Living Locally invites gallerists, artists, and cultural insiders to spotlight Singapore’s most compelling destinations from a local perspective. Created for collectors, fair guests, and art enthusiasts alike, the guide offers an insider’s look at the city’s creative energy and cultural rhythm beyond the fair.