A special watercolour painting workshop created especially for the Singapore Heritage Festival 2026, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and architectural charm of Joo Chiat through an expressive, artistic lens.
A Brief History
In the 1820s, Joo Chiat was largely an agricultural area. By the early 1900s, as the city grew more crowded, people began moving east, transforming it into a thriving residential suburb. The district is named after Chew Joo Chiat, a prominent Peranakan landowner and philanthropist who played a key role in developing the area.
In the early 20th century, affluent Peranakan families settled here, shaping its cultural identity and reaching their peak presence between the 1920s and 1930s. Today, the neighbourhood is celebrated for its distinctive pre-war shophouses - adorned with pastel hues, intricate ceramic tiles, and ornate motifs, making it one of Singapore’s most charming heritage enclaves.
In this guided workshop, participants will learn to paint one of Singapore’s most iconic architectural gems, the Joo Chiat shophouses, using expressive watercolour techniques.
Suitable for both beginners and experienced artists, the workshop supports beginners in building confidence with architectural subjects, while offering experienced artists the opportunity to refine their skills and explore a fresh, expressive approach to urban scenes.
Joo Chiat Shophouse Watercolour Workshop (SHF2026 Edition)
Through clear, step-by-step instruction, the artist will guide participants from foundational techniques to final details. The session will explore:
- Watercolour methods
- Capturing depth, light, and shadow
- Mixing vibrant yet harmonious colours
- Adding character through loose, expressive brushwork
Participants will learn to balance precision with spontaneity, preserving the fluid charm of watercolour while highlighting the intricate details that make these heritage buildings so distinctive.
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