3. Tourism Roles and Economic Value of Singapore Biennale 2008

3. Tourism Roles and Economic Value of Singapore Biennale 2008
3.1 Tourist Attraction
Singapore Biennale 2008, being an international contemporary mega visual arts exhibition, will definitely attract tourists from around the world who are appreciated of contemporary art. This is the second edition of Singapore’s biennale of contemporary arts after its successful inaugural edition in 2006. Tourists who have heard of the Biennale in 2006 but have not had the chance to visit it now can visit Singapore Biennale 2008. This event will definitely attract new tourists or repeat tourists to the event itself.

Singapore Biennale 2008 starts from 11 September and ends at 16 November 2008. September is the month where tourist arrivals to Singapore are very low, therefore having the event during the month of September could help Singapore increase tourist arrival numbers and also at the same time increase tourist receipts.

Contemporary art is a high culture where most individuals that appreciate the art have higher level of education and skills. This may mean that tourists visiting Singapore and Singapore Biennale 2008 have higher spending power, and this shows a positive economic sign when they come in to Singapore for the event, where they may be spending high amounts in accommodation, food and beverage. The arts sector is definitely a profitable sector that Singapore has tapped into, and the Singapore Biennale 2008 will definitely bring Singapore to a totally new level.


3.2 Animator
Singapore Biennale which is going to be held every two years will definitely bring about repeat visits from overseas visitors. It could also generate first visits from other visitors after hearing from the previous Biennales. The event which is held at Marina Bay will also attract visitors as it has other amazing attractions and facilities, like the Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Flyer and others. The event will indirectly help increase revenue of such attractions, due to the spillover effect


3.3 Image Maker
Singapore is known to be a country with low levels of art appreciation. By having a Singapore Biennale event, it would help overcome the perceived image and push Singapore forward to being a Global City of Arts. The theme of this year’s Biennale event is “Wonder”, it will make the visitors “feel curious” or have a “desire to know” more about Singapore through the event.
Having increased interest in Singapore, tourist from around the world, brought about by Singapore Biennale, will definitely visit Singapore and have a taste of the arts in Singapore.


3.4 Place Marketing
Singapore Biennale 2008 will contribute to creating a positive image of Singapore as it is held in the Marina Bay, the Garden City by the Bay. It would create a city island image of Singapore, as Marina Bay has wonderful performing arts centres such as the Esplanade.

The event is held in the historical building of City Hall and also South Beach Development. This event will aid in marketing Singapore to its citizens again, allowing them to participate in the event and relive history moments.
Marina Bay and the specific buildings used for the event will therefore be marketed; locals and tourists may just come to the area not having any Singapore Biennale in mind, but to visit Marina Bay and its attractions. This will bring about revenue for the Marina Bay and create a memorable image of the area.


3.5 Catalysts
The Singapore Biennale 2008 will act as a catalyst to support the other attractions in the vicinity of Marina Bay. Tourists or locals who went for the event may ponder “Since we’re here, why don’t we visit the other attractions of Marina Bay, like the Singapore Flyer.” This will bring about a spillover effect where it will benefit nearby accommodations, restaurants attractions and others. For example, the tourists may visit the Esplanade for another art performance or exhibition, which will help stimulate business.