2.5 Programming

2.5 Programming

A proper programming plan within the event is a marketing decision, aiming at the ways of creating targeted benefits for its market segment. The main attractive factor for visiting events is the programmes, and they are most likely a very important factor determining the success of the event.


Singapore Biennale has many programmes set up during its two month exhibition timeframe. It starts off with a Vernissage which is a preview event for the Singapore Biennale 2008. The Vernissage has a series of programmes lined up with VIP’s, invited guests, professionals and also the general public. Some example of the programmes lined up for the Vernissage is a “Launch Party” by invitation only, “Wonder Club”, “Artists Talks”, Hans Op de Beeck Book Launch and Talk”, “Artistic Director’s Tour” and “Curator’s Tour”.


There are also programmes targeted towards community building. A series of public platforms called “Encounters” is formed and they are “get-together” sessions in Singapore or at international arts events for the meeting between the interested public, the arts communities and also the Singapore Biennale curatorial team. These programmes not only benefit the public, it also serves as a feedback mechanism for the Singapore Biennale 2008 as it is being organized. This develops a sense of belongingness towards the Biennale event for the local community.


Following the Adult’s Biennale, Singapore Biennale has worked together with Little Art Bug Workshop to come up with a Kids’ Biennale, to introduce Primary school students to this year’s theme of “Wonder”. This comprises of programmes held both in the school and at Singapore Biennale 2008. It will help the children relate what they have learnt to the best of international contemporary art.



The Kid’s Biennale will showcase the best works from these children and special projects from the participating primary schools. This is also a platform for young Singaporean children to showcase their talent, and it will help Singapore promote the arts culture.


The Singapore Biennale aims to educate the youths and young adults too, therefore, there are programmes built for them. Such programmes for the youths and young adults are a Biennale Race 2008 and school tours to the event itself. This allows them to learn and appreciate contemporary arts through fun and educational ways.


At the Singapore Biennale indoor exhibition venues, there are guided tours held mostly during the weekend. These tours will let visitors gain a better understanding of the artworks, artists and how these artworks can relate to the theme of Wonder.
Even if the visitors are unable to be on a guided tour, they can download the Singapore Biennale 2008 Audio Guide, which comes in the form of mp3s and can be put into their MP3 players. MP3 players with pre-loaded audio tours are also available free-of-charge at the counters at certain venues of the event.



Opinions
The wide range of programmes for Singapore Biennale 2008 is very well done, and it can definitely attract visitors of diverse ages.