The Pinacothèque de Paris, one of France's largest private art museums, recently announced plans to establish its first overseas branch in Singapore. This museum, to be known as the "Pinacothèque de Paris Singapore," will be located at Fort Canning Centre and is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2015. From then on, the public in Singapore will be able to appreciate classic works by famous painters such as Van Gogh, Picasso, and Monet without traveling abroad, as these masterpieces are all authentic private collections.
Marc Restellini, founder and director of the Pinacothèque de Paris, stated that Singapore is the best location in Asia to establish a branch. He noted that he was deeply impressed by Singapore when he first visited four years ago. "Singapore has an advantage in promoting art development, and the government's attitude is very proactive." According to Wang Zhijing, Chairperson of the Art Heritage Group, which is responsible for the renovation of the "Pinacothèque de Paris Singapore," the museum will be transformed into a magnificent art palace while preserving the historical appearance of the building. She said that the overall design of the museum's exterior will incorporate lighting technology, while the interior design will combine event and exhibition functions, allowing people to hold banquets and other activities surrounded by famous paintings.
The Fort Canning Centre in Singapore was originally a colonial-era military building and has served as a workspace for various arts and commercial groups in Singapore. It is reported that the renovation plan has received support from the National Parks Board and the Singapore Tourism Board, with the lease for the venue tentatively set for 10 years.
