Cute, colourful, and with a dash of NSFW humour – not exactly the trio you’d expect to find in Joo Chiat, but here we are. Heartware Store & Gallery – the same part-design-store, part-art-space that brought us the Hello Singapore! exhibition – is back with another pop-up that looks innocent at first glance, but don’t be fooled.
The latest showcase, Ikuiku Love Hotel, is a collaboration with Taiwanese artist Ikuiku, and features adorable aesthetics with some cheeky bedroom humour sprinkled here and there. It’s playful rather than paiseh, so you won’t feel like you accidentally walked into something dodgy.
Ikuiku and her artworks.
Image adapted from: @ikuikustudio via Instagram
It’s what it sounds like – an art exhibition inspired by the slightly risqué world of love hotels, done in a way that’s more cute than crude. Each artwork explores themes of sexuality and intimacy through Ikuiku’s signature style, with vibrant colours and quirky characters taking the spotlight. Nothing is overly explicit, but the innuendos are loud enough to make you take a second look.
At its core, the exhibition is sex-positive, encouraging people to be a little more open and light-hearted about sexuality instead of treating it like some taboo topic. And in a society that can still be conservative about these things, it feels like a breath of fresh air.
This is definitely a fun and slightly spicy spot to check out with your partner if you’re looking to change up the usual Valentine’s Day dinner date routine.
Image adapted from: @heartware.store via Instagram
Step in to “check in” for a stay – look out for the reception-style counter, complete with a backdrop of Ikuiku’s characters clearly up to some ahem activities, and a wall of keychains designed like hotel room keys.
You’ll also find a mock hotel room set-up that leans fully into the theme. The walls are lined with more of Ikuiku’s eccentric and bright artworks, each one hiding naughty details behind its cute facade. Front and centre, the phrase “make love not war” is plastered across the wall – just in case the message of the exhibition wasn’t clear enough already.
Then make your way to the “bathroom”, where you’ll see more artworks on display. Don’t say we never warn you: the shower curtain here is very sheer. This little corner is for anyone who’s not shy about catching a suggestive glimpse while admiring the art.
Image adapted from: @heartware.store via Instagram
On other walls, you’ll find more framed artworks to pore over, but what will probably grab your attention first is the wall of TV screens, each “broadcasting” illustrations of you-know-what. There are even CDs you can “pick” from, completing the somewhat scandalous vibes of the space.
Image adapted from: @heartware.store via Instagram
Let’s start with the tamer goods first. Get your hands on bedroom slippers and soaps that double as everyday items – they’re practical enough so no one’s going to be sus if you bring them home.
Image adapted from: @heartware.store via Instagram
The stickers on sale aren’t too racy either – they mostly showcase some of Ikuiku’s other illustrations, perfect for decorating your laptop, water bottle, or wherever you want a touch of mischief.
Image adapted from: @heartware.store via Instagram
Now, onto the items you’ve probably been waiting for. There’s a tufted rug featuring animals and reptiles in suggestive positions, and t-shirts printed with Ikuiku’s cheeky artwork.
We’d say these are best kept in your bedroom, but if you’re bold enough to rock the t-shirts out in public, go for it. After all, the whole point of this exhibition is about embracing what’s natural.
Image adapted from: @heartware.store via Instagram
Sticking with the love hotel theme, you can also snag door hanger signs and keychains. They come printed with phrases like “Do Not Disturb” and “Make Out Room” for all the reasons you already know.
Image adapted from: @heartware.store & @toastymapleo via Instagram
Even the more risqué items get the cute treatment, like the Kurex condom blind box. Each box contains 3 Durex condoms, but you won’t know which type you’re getting. Who knew blind boxes could come in this form?
The exhibition runs until 15th March 2026, and entry is free. Just take note that it might not be the best spot to bring kids along, but for anyone else, it’s a playful escape that’s worth a visit.
Image credit: Samuel Lam via Google Maps
The Ikuiku Love Hotel exhibition is held at Heartware Store & Gallery, nestled on the 3rd floor of a shophouse in Joo Chiat. It’s about a 13-minute walk from Marine Parade MRT Station, or just a 1-minute stroll from the Aft Duku Rd bus stop, served by buses 16 and 16M.
Unlike most art exhibitions in Singapore, which can sometimes feel a bit serious, Ikuiku Love Hotel is unafraid to be a little naughty. Sneak a pic or two while you’re there, and soak in all the unique details that make this pop-up so delightfully different.
More fun things to do in Singapore:
Cover image adapted from: @heartware.store & @toastymapleo via Instagram
The newest big splash in BKK.
Expect to see popular brands like BarenBliss, Clio, and Colorgram.
Get fancy hampers for just $32!
Cute and cheeky date idea.
I'm singin' in the rain!