In this edition of Storefront Chats, Greydient Store shifts its focus to the next generation of designers shaping the industry’s future. We spoke with local art and design undergraduates to gain insight into their views on the local design landscape – the changes underway, the challenges they encounter, and their aspirations for the industry.

Disclaimer : Student interviews were conducted in December 2024, prior to the announcement of Singapore’s Budget 2025 Culture Pass. Any views or opinions expressed have no affiliation with the recent Budget 2025 announcement. 

1. Are you hopeful for the local art and design industry?

“Yes, it’s a growing industry and people are starting to recognise the need for good design.”

There was a sense of optimistic hope amongst the students about our local arts and design scene. Their reasons often detail the increasing spotlight given to the design scene as government and institutional efforts are pushing art to the forefront of our current landscape. Exhibitions like Singapore Art Week (SAW) and other design events are playing key roles in providing emerging artists with platforms to not only showcase their works but educate the public and aspiring artists on the importance of design in our everyday lives.

2. How do you feel about Arts and Design as a Career Path?

“It’s quite fascinating and exciting.”

“It’s definitely a bit scary because there’s not really a set pathway …this journey is very personal…” 

Choosing a career in arts and design can be an exciting yet uncertain journey for many. While some are fully committed to pursuing their passion in an artistic career, others acknowledge the inherent unpredictability of creative careers in aspects such as career progression compared to other industries.

3. Based on your understanding of the global arts and design scene, which country do you think has a more creative scene than Singapore?

“ They have less restrictions and…pressure … I really do think they have the space to grow, develop and explore more as an artist.”

When comparing Singapore to other global design hubs, Thailand was mentioned multiple times with reasons being that there are less restrictions for people to express themselves through their art and less emphasis on academia as a means to success. Other countries include Korea, Japan, China and the Scandinavian countries. 

4. What do you think is needed for Singapore creatives to thrive? 

“Spaces dedicated to art … [there is]a need for physical spaces where we can interact with the work.”

The lack of dedicated art spaces was an evident barrier to creativity, emphasizing the importance of physical environments where artists can interact with their work and the community. Beyond infrastructure, there is a call for a shift in societal attitudes toward arts and design.

“Maybe a change in society’s mindset. We all know during COVID, they regarded artists and designers as non-essentials, if they could reframe their mindset, that could be a good step.“

A long-standing stigma surrounding creative careers continues to limit artistic exploration, compounded by the structured and results-driven nature of Singapore’s education system. Reflections on the COVID-19 pandemic reveal lingering perceptions of art and design as “non-essential,” underscoring the need for a broader cultural reframe—one that values creativity not just as an aesthetic pursuit, but as an integral part of society’s progress.

Despite the challenges, these young artists are excited for the future, but they also know the road ahead is uncertain. Instead of seeing challenges as setbacks, they see them as opportunities to grow. Their drive to push boundaries and belief that Singapore has room to evolve is what inspires us to keep moving forward too.