A remarkable collection of 36 watercolour paintings from the William Farquhar Collection of Natural History Drawings has made its debut at the Australian Museum in Sydney. This exhibition, titled “Tails from the Coasts: Nature Stories of Singapore,” celebrates the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Australia. The exhibition, which runs from 10 May to 7 September 2025, marks the first time these treasured artworks have left Singapore.
The exhibition showcases the biodiversity of Singapore through exquisite 200-year-old paintings, featuring unique species such as the binturong, winghead shark, and slow loris. Kim McKay, Director and CEO of the Australian Museum, expressed gratitude to the National Museum of Singapore for entrusting them with the collection, highlighting its significance as a National Treasure. “These paintings are at once unique and familiar, featuring remarkable mammals, reptiles, and stunning botanicals,” McKay noted.
Chung May Khuen, Director of the National Museum of Singapore, emphasised the exhibition’s role in fostering collaboration and connection between the two museums. “The exhibition is an opportune collaboration to commemorate relations between both countries through the lens of animals and geographies that connect us,” she said.
Following its stint in Sydney, the exhibition will travel to the Adelaide Botanic Garden from 4 October 2025 to 1 February 2026. Visitors can also explore the collection digitally on Singapore’s Roots.sg portal. This exhibition not only celebrates artistic and scientific heritage but also aims to spark discussions on environmental and animal conservation.
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