You may not know his name, but you’ve probably seen his unique sculptures around Singapore – especially the adorably rotund “Bird” sculpture along the Singapore River. The late artist behind it is the legendary Fernando Botero, and his full-figured masterpieces have arrived at Gardens by the Bay (GBTB) and the new IMBA Theatre in a major exhibition titled “Botero in Singapore”.
This landmark showcase brings together nearly 130 original works, making it the largest Botero exhibition in the world, with Singapore as its only Southeast Asian stop. Here’s what you need to know before checking it out in person:
Image adapted from: IMBA
Instead of a single showcase, Botero in Singapore unfolds in 3 segments: an immersive experience on Botero’s life, a major gallery exhibition of his paintings, drawings, and indoor sculptures, and 6 iconic outdoor sculptures displayed around Gardens by the Bay.
While the first 2 segments are ticketed and will open soon, the 6 outdoor sculptures are already set up and open to the public – no tickets required.
The star of Botero in Singapore has to be A Life in Fullness, the world’s first immersive experience dedicated to Botero. This 45-minute journey is narrated by his eldest son, Fernando Botero Zea, and blends animation, archival footage, and storytelling to trace his steps – from his early days in Colombia to the international success of his unique “Boterismo” style.
If you loved Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience at Sentosa, this is your chance to peek into the intimate world of another artist whose work has influenced generations.
Image credit: IMBA
The experience will be held at the new IMBA Theatre at Gardens by the Bay as part of its grand opening programme. This new venue aims to be a platform for immersive exhibitions by both local and international artists, so you can expect more exciting arts and culture showcases here in the future.
A Life in Fullness is opening on 6th March 2026, and you can get early bird tickets from 30th January 2026 onwards.
Image adapted from: IMBA
Beyond sculptures, Botero is also known for his vibrant oil paintings depicting humans and objects of voluminous proportions. The Heart of Volume gallery exhibition will feature 118 paintings, drawings, and indoor sculptures from the Botero family collection. While paintings include the iconic First Lady on a Horse and Still Life, you can also explore the 70-year evolution of his distinctive style from his earlier works.
The Heart of Volume exhibition will open at the IMBA Theatre on 13th February 2026, and early bird tickets are going on sale from 30th January 2026 onwards.
Image credit: IMBA
Lastly, Botero strongly believed that art should be accessible and available in public spaces, which is why 6 of his sculptures are now on display in the Silver Leaf Garden as part of Garden Grandeur. You don’t require a ticket to view these larger-than-life bronze sculptures, and the backdrop of Gardens by the Bay makes for some great pictures.
Image credit: IMBA
These sculptures will be stationed here until 15th May 2026, so take the chance to view Botero’s masterpieces up close. Just a heads-up if you’re bringing kiddos along, as the exhibition is rated Advisory 16 due to some nudity.
While prices have yet to be announced, early bird tickets to A Life in Fullness and Heart of Volume will be released from 30th January 2026 onwards. Meanwhile, the Garden Grandeur display is free and already up for viewing.
With recent events such as Light to Night as well as the launch of the SG Culture Pass, Singapore’s arts and culture scene is thriving. And whether you’re into immersive displays or art galleries, Botero in Singapore is yet another reason for you to head out and discover.
More exhibitions to check out:
Cover image adapted from: IMBA
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