Still Standing: Substation Erupts New Talent Even Amid Closing Threats

How The Substation is Power‑boosting Art Without the Power‑Plant

Remember the legendary 45 Armenian Street, the old power station turned arts hub that Kuo Pao Kun saved in 1990? That place was the heartbeat of Singapore’s creative scene – a warehouse where dancers, painters, and curious crowds collided, like a neon rave inside a rusted transformer.

Why the Substation is Gone from the Site

The government snapped the building back in July 2021 for major refurbishment, and the Assembly, now called the National Arts Council (NAC), said “see you later” with a permanent shut‑down on the agenda.
But the Substation’s spirit never paused. In fact, the crew decided to flip the script and reverse course – turning a closed venue into a brand‑new arts company that’s all about fresh, original shows.

Meet the New Captain of Substation 2.0

Enter Ezzam Rahman, the artistic director who’s been surfing the creative wave since September, taking over from the talented Raka Maitra. Ezzam isn’t just an artist; he’s a multi‑disciplinary wizard, art teacher, and 2016 NAC Young Artist Award laureate. He’s got the vision to keep the Substation alive, even when it doesn’t have a fixed address.

What’s Next for the Substation?

“We’re re‑imagining what an arts venue can be. It’s no longer a physical space, but a presence in the pulse of the community. Think of it as a floating gallery – it’s everywhere as long as people are ready to roll,” says Ezzam.

So, what will you see on this new helix of creativity?

Original programming that asks, ‘What if?’.
More collaborative projects where local and international artists double‑take the stage.
Interactive pop‑up exhibitions that pop up wherever you can find a space to gather.
The Substation’s enduring legacy woven into every new show, ensuring the old power‑station’s spark lives on.

In short, the Substation is out of the house, but it’s still in the hearts of all those who love to push the limits of art.

You weren’t yet with The Substation when it was announced last year that it would vacate Armenian Street and even close for good. As an observer, what was your reaction?

My Take on the Iconic Armenian Street Space

Why It Matters (and Why I’m Still Giddy)

I was firmly in a denial state—like, “No, it’s not gone” mode. The Armenian Street building has to be one of the most vital independent art venues in town for us. Think of it as the launchpad for countless artists, many of whom kicked off their careers right inside The Substation.

So, there’s always this tether to the space in my brain. Yet, Miami is a melting pot of perspectives, and change is a daily vibe. The structure will keep standing, but I’m genuinely thrilled to watch it transform and keep adding fresh chapters to its story.

What Makes It Tick

Arts, arts, arts—no filter needed.
A launchpad for emerging talent.
Endless vibes for the creative soul.

When The Substation was revived and the Artistic Director position came up, what made you say yes?

Reimagining Art in a Whole New Light

I’m a lifelong devotee of everything that moves the soul – from chisel-smoothed marble to the echo of a stage‑hand’s laugh. For two decades it’s been my profession, my passion, my quiet gospel. I am a sculptor, a theater enthusiast, a dancer, a music lover, a bookworm, a film buff – basically, if it’s art, I’m in love with it.

Now that I’ve landed a fresh role, a whole new chapter has opened. It’s not just about the creative spark; it’s about returning the love to the community that has always supported me. I’m thrilled to bring The Substation back to life, in a brand‑new form that promises to be as exciting for our audience as it is for me.

What Lies Ahead?

Reintroducing iconic performances with a modern twist
Invite local artists to collaborate across media
Host open‑air workshops that break down barriers between creators and fans
Celebrate the art of everyday life with spontaneous street tableaux

Why It Matters

Art thrives when it spreads, and I feel the magic when new voices join the chorus. That’s why I’m embracing this responsibility with gusto – I’ve got a feeling the Substation will grow into a hub where everyone can shout, dance, and feel the heart of a community being built right before our eyes.

What is this change that we’ll see?

We’re Standing By the Artists

First things first, we’re all about backing the creative folks. That’s the heart of our mission. We want to help arts practitioners bring their visions to life and spark lively conversations between them and the public.

Program & Festival‑First Approach

Under my guidance, The Substation will pivot to a programme‑driven vibe with a big splash during SeptFest. Every September, we throw a month‑long party that fuses art, culture and community. It’s the perfect time to actually bring art straight to its fans!

New Formats. We’re discovering fresh ways to showcase art—both live and online.
Digital Meets Physical. Blending screens with studio space to keep the experience alive.
Positive Change. We’re betting on change to upgrade everything from workshop vibes to festival buzz.

Why It Matters

Art doesn’t just sit in a gallery; it lives in conversations, feels in the air of a community, and pops up on your phone at the same time. Our job?

Bring face‑to‑face encounters to the next level.
Make digital art feel real and engaging.
Keep the creative dialogue flowing.

In Short

We’re not just hosting events; we’re creating whole experiences that make art feel everyone’s, and every moment’s, friend.

Will The Substation return to Armenian Street?

Hold Tight: No Relocation on the Horizon

So, you’re reading this and wondering if the big move is on the cards. Here’s the straight answer: without a doubt, there are no plans to rehome here or anywhere else.

Why The Move Isn’t Happening

Current spot is cozy – we love the vibe, the view, and the local coffee spots.
Moving headaches – leases, packing lists, and the vibe of a “new place” leave us feeling suspicious.
Community matters – friends, neighbors, the local high school, the park – our support network is solid.

What We’re Doing Now

Instead of scrambling to a new address, we’re taking a mindful pause. The world moves on at its own pace, and we’ll keep an eye on the opportunities that pop up.

So, Here’s the Plan

Stay put – keep enjoying the familiar.
Be ready – if something truly exciting shows up, we’ll jump on it.
Hold your breath – until the next chapter writes itself.

Short and sweet: no relocation right now, just a patiently waiting attitude for whatever comes next.

When you joined The Substation, you said, “Art allows us to lose and find ourselves, time and again. That’s why The Substation is still here today and will continue to support artists.” Tell us a little bit about the artist mindset and also the challenges of practising art in Singapore.

Lost in the Art Zone (and How to Find Your Way Back)

Ever felt like you’re stepping into a black hole the moment you pick up a brush or a chisel? That’s the sweet, mind‑blowing side of being a creative. You vanish into your own headspace, letting the material you’re juggling become an extension of your vision, while hoping that the audience will actually catch something meaningful from the chaos.

The Triple‑Threat of Being an Artist

Being an artist isn’t just about bragging; it’s a full‑time job with a three‑legged table: the community, yourself, and the viewers.

Community: The public that pays your bills and the fellow creatives you rely on for inspiration.
Personal: Your own sanity, health, and the moral compass that keeps you from going overboard.
Audience: The crowd at the gallery, the folks scrolling your Instagram feed, and anyone who might interpret your work in ways you never imagined.

Because Space is Ouch!

Living in a city where rent is practically a luxury comes with its own set of games: the art studio is a tight, tiny room that costs a small fortune. So when you go to sculpt a giant or build a sprawling installation, you’ve got to ask yourself two hard questions:

Will this piece fit in the space I’ve paid a premium for?
Will it generate more waste than the money I made for it?

Answering these keeps the whole process sane and stops you from turning your studio into a landfill.

Bottom Line: The Dilemma of the Dedicated Artist

Art making is like a fine‑artful tightrope walk. Use the material wisely, honor the space, respect your audience, and maybe sprinkle some humor along the way—because if you’re going to lose yourself, at least lose it laughing.

What is your hope for Singapore’s arts scene, say by 2030?

Turning Passion into Pride: Singapore’s Art Scene Takes the Spotlight

Hey, fellow Singaporeans! Ever feel a tug‑of‑war between the bustle of the city and the quiet glow of creativity that’s brewing right under our noses? Well, it’s high time we put a spotlight on the neon‑bright canvases, the daring sculptures, and the digital masterpieces that are born in our own backyard.

Why the Whole Nation Should Get Involved

Culture is Cash: Art isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a major economic driver. Imagine if we knew our local talent could hit global runways.
Identity Reboot: Turns out our neighborhoods could become the next Muse-california. Picture Singapore becoming the go‑to place for creative minds.
Community Giddy‑up: Every art sale, exhibition, or fist‑up in the gallery is a collective brag‑moment for the whole town.

Let’s Make Artists Household Names

We’ve got painters who paint dragons on a megaphone’s white noise, musicians who jam in coffee shops while pigeons do the cha‑cha, and writers who turn grocery shopping into poetry. Those creators deserve to be as familiar as the last boba cup we crave. Why not shout from the rooftops that Singapore is where art lives, breathes, and does a little dance?

What To Do (Because We’re All Involved)

Open minds, open museums: Promote local exhibitions like the world’s biggest open‑mic.
Support gigs: Get backstage passes, buy prints, buy merch—anything that shifts some cash to the artists.
Talk about it: Google Google about their work, share it at posh dinner parties or at your friend’s midnight karaoke.

At its core, this is a mission for everyone: us, my mom, my neighbor, our future apprentices. Let’s celebrate the creativity that is so close, so real. Singapore’s talent isn’t just art—it’s a promise that we’re proud of who we are, each other, and the beauty we generate together.

You’ve been an arts educator for a long time. What’s one advice you always give students?

“You Do You”: A Slogan That’s Got It All

It might feel like a tired cliché, but when I tell my art students the last thing before they walk out of the studio, I’m not trying to be cheesy. I say, “You do you”—and that’s the mantra everyone should grab onto.

Why It’s a Game‑Changer

Your story matters. It’s yours, so don’t let it be silenced.
Take ownership. If your narrative feels important, step up and keep it alive.
Express boldly. Artists are the original storytellers; we bring untold tales to the world.

Almodóvar’s Take on Authenticity

Filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar once declared, “Anything that is not autobiography is plagiarism.” If you feel even half the truth in those words, you’re in good company.

As creatives, we’re on a mission: to share our unique perspectives, tackle tough topics, and do it all through the power of art. It’s all about holding onto the story that only you can tell.

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First published in The Peak.*

Still Standing: Substation Erupts New Talent Even Amid Closing Threats