555 MART At Heartware Store & Gallery, Joo Chiat
Step into a Joo Chiat shophouse and you’ll usually find artisanal coffee or sourdough. But right now, Heartware Store & Gallery has been transformed into a quirky, neon-drenched convenience store that’ll make you do a double-take. Following the success of their cheeky IKUIKU Love Hotel show, the gallery is back with 555 MART by Nene.
Who is the artist behind 555 MART?
The exhibition features Nene, aka Nanthawan Jamsai, a talented illustrator and graphic designer based in Bangkok, Thailand. This is her first-ever solo exhibition in Singapore.
What is 555 MART?
If you’ve ever felt like our local supermarkets and grocery stores were missing a bit of vibes, this is where you need to be.
The name “555” comes from Thai internet slang. Since the number five is pronounced “ha” in Thai, “555” is basically their version of “LOL.” It’s the perfect name for an exhibition that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Nene has basically taken the everyday items from our kitchens, like cup noodles, Yakult bottles, canned sardines, and those ubiquitous yellow bananas, and given them a massive glow-up.
Using a mix of ballpoint pen sketches and vibrant Risograph printing – think neon colours that pop more than your standard printer -, she turns grocery shopping into a legit art form.
What to expect at 555 MART
Walking into Heartware Store right now feels like entering a supermarket multiverse. Nene thought, “convenience store, but make it art”.
The gallery has been decked out to look like a real mart, complete with a mock checkout belt where you can play pretend.
It’s super immersive and, honestly, a 10/10 spot for the ‘Gram. Instead of stuffy frames on white walls, you’ll find art hanging amongst groceries, making the whole experience feel less like a typical museum exhibition and more like a fun hangout.
What merch can you buy at 555 MART?
Since Heartware is part-store, you won’t leave empty-handed.
Nene has brought over a ton of exclusive collectibles that are so fun to display. We’re talking
- Limited-edition prints: Perfect for those trying to fix their sad beige room vibes.
- Bag charms and keychains: Little illustrated snacks to hang on your puffer bag.
- Stationery: Stickers and postcards that are almost too cute to use.
Everything is very IYKYK; it looks like a snack at first glance, but once you look closer, you see Nene’s signature quirky line work and humour.
There’s also merch from previous exhibitions, like Hello! Singapore and IKUIKU Love Hotel.
How do I get to Heartware Store & Gallery?
The gallery is located in the heart of Joo Chiat. The nearest MRT stations are Eunos and Paya Lebar, followed by a short bus ride or a 15-minute walk.
Why you should go to 555 MART
If you’re the kind of person who finds art galleries a bit chim or intimidating, this is the perfect antidote. It’s lighthearted, colourful, and celebrates the beauty in the mundane things we usually ignore.
Plus, it’s located in Joo Chiat, so you can grab a laksa or a gelato right after. No gatekeeping here; it’s free entry too, so just walk in and enjoy the aircon.
Find out more about 555 MART
Admission: Free
Dates: Now till 17th May 2026
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Photography by Aditi Kashyap.