Success in Succession

Chan Qing Hao, the incoming director for simpleArte, posed in the middle of UNSTAGED, a music photography exhibition he curated and facilitated. Photographed by Eiffel Lee

After 2 years of management under Executive Director Glen Tay, simpleArte’s leadership will now be succeeded by the current Creative Director, Chan Qing Hao.

Mr Tay had played a mentor figure towards Mr Chan, and is proud to announce as of 15th August 2023, that Mr Chan shall be taking over his directorship of the simpleArte pte ltd.

Glen Tay, founder of tech company iCare.4U, and the outgoing director of simpleArte. A philanthropist and staunch supporter of the arts, he had previously identified, selected, and mentored Mr Chan

This decision comes as simpleArte wraps up 3 shows curated by Mr Chan, Toy Shop, UNSTAGED, and More Than Just Panels, a series of subversive and multi-genre exhibitions that were intended to challenge the Singaporean idea of what could be exhibited in a fine arts gallery, and by extension what the notion of art could represent.

Mr Chan was a media freelancer prior, a videographer and photographer who provided services to notable clients such as CNBC Africa, FOX Sports, Singapore Press Holdings, and more. He had also previously worked with The Straits Times, ST Video, and The Business Times.

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Mr Chan is most known for his concert and performance photography, which can be viewed on his website qhphotos.com, and his Instagram account.

“I’m grateful to Glen for this incredible opportunity, and I hope not to let him down. He has been a wonderful mentor who has guided me and taught me many aspects of the business. He has never looked down on nor doubted me despite my age or lack of experience,” shared Mr Chan

The succession is supported by simpleArte’s supporters and partners, notably Mr Edmund Song, a prolific patron of the arts, and longtime supporter of the gallery since its inception, and Mr Darren Siew, an investor and partner of simpleArte.

“We’ve been trying a lot of new things, integrating music and art, I’m very excited to see where we can go from here,” said Mr Chan.

A performance by HongJoin, a local musician, held in simpleArte gallery. Photographed by Eiffel Lee

“I’m hoping to create a homely and fun space for musicians and artists alike, and I want to help creatives in Singapore to the best of my ability.”

“There will be more to come, and much more to announce.”