A sisterhood of female artists in Singapore

Now in its third year, Canvas Connections continues to showcase professional female artists in Singapore and their collectible artworks. RAJUL SHAH, the director of Zubaadhi Studio & Gallery that sponsors the art collective, shares her reflections as a founding member and where you can buy their art, including paintings.

Tell us a bit about Canvas Connections.

We are an art collective comprised of culturally diverse, professional female artists based in Singapore. We create art across a variety of subject matter and styles, including mixed media, abstract, nature, landscapes, animals, digital, photography and sculpture. Each artist brings a visually unique blend of creative language and experience.

What’s the purpose of bringing female artists together in one art studio?

We share inspiration, ideas and best practices in a supportive environment that helps each female artist grow to her full potential.

I feel this statement from Create! Magazine on Instagram summarises us perfectly: “Artists need other artists in their lives who think they’re a big deal. No competition; no envy; no hate. Only ‘I love you, I’m here for you, you can do this’ kind of energy.”

What’s special about this art collective?

We’re not only passionate and serious about our art, we’re also steadfast in our passion and support for one another.

From sharing unique techniques to “calls for art”, information regarding an art fair, gallery or art studio, we help each other make better decisions regarding each member’s professional trajectory.

We actively look for opportunities to showcase members’ art, whether it’s online or in a physical venue.

We showcase our works individually as well as part of the art collective. Our artists have shown globally in art events such as the Affordable Art Fair in Singapore, the Florence Biennale, an Expo in Seoul, and even the Annual International Society of Experimental Artists in Canada.

One artist’s photographic series is now part of the Sabah Museum collection. Individual artists have also been featured in international professional art magazines such as Art Seen and Create! Magazine.

Works from our members are also in personal collections around the world, from Singapore to Malaysia, Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, India, Dubai, Russia, Finland, Spain, Canada, the USA and the UK.

Where can we see the artists’ work, outside of the art studio?

We always look forward to our signature show, which is held once a year in autumn. (See below for details.) It’s a great opportunity for our artists to show their work, and for guests to obtain a good understanding of each artist’s body of work, interacting with them to get a deeper understanding of her process and inspiration.

Besides talking about art, are there other activities that you do together?

Groups of us attend shows together in support of other artists in Singapore. We also support one another when one of our female artists shows outside the collective. Sometimes a couple of the ladies will go see a new event at the museums.

We also learn from each other. For example, one of the artists is looking at applying gold leaf to her work and was asking advice from the group. Another artist volunteered to do a demonstration in person, and now there are six of us who are interested in learning. We are friends and colleagues, with art as the bond.

Are you opening the collective to more female artists in Singapore?

We open calls for applications from professional female artists once a year in February. We announce the call for art on social media and through our newsletter to VIP subscribers. Artists must reside in Singapore to apply.

I’m thinking about starting my own art collection. Where can I buy paintings from Canvas Connections?

Come to our shows to see a diverse array of artworks and styles, and ask questions. We encourage you to take your time to explore, inquire and explore again as we want you to fall in love with an artwork before collecting it.

Prices for our members’ works range between $100 for small works to $3,000 for marquis-size, depending on the artist and her professional profile.

Hear what members say…

“The women provide a great sounding board, as well as share tips and best practices. And the team does an excellent job of scouting great exhibition spaces.” – Lisa Larson Lee

“Members generously share their experiences, challenges and guidance, offering invaluable support for navigating the highly competitive art world. It’s truly a beautiful and nurturing space to be in.” – Swati Palekar

Stay in the loop of shows by this art collective

Canvas Connection shares information about its shows at venues like art studios and galleries on Instagram @canvas.connection. You can also sign up for the newsletter at canvasconnections-art.com.

The group’s third signature show, Artful Expressions, will run from 29 October to 3 November, with Casey Chen, curator of Tembusu Art Gallery, showcasing their work at his gallery. Look out for further details via social media and newsletters.

canvasconnections-art.com

This article about a group of female artists in Singapore and where to buy their paintings first appeared in the October 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy. Read on for more things to do in Singapore and where to find street art on our island!

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