Street Art in Singapore: Bras Basah Complex Wall Mural
RICKY GUI . 2.5 TO 3 MINUTES READING TIME
When most people think about wall murals in Singapore, their mind goes straight to Chinatown. And fair enough — the murals there are famous, well-documented, and frequently splashed across social media. But what if I told you there’s another place where you can enjoy murals without the crowd, without worrying about the weather, and with plenty of creative surprises tucked into one spot?
Welcome to Bras Basah Complex, a place I like to think of as Singapore’s “hidden” mural gallery.
A Little History of Bras Basah Complex
Before we jump into the art, it’s worth knowing a bit about this place. Built in the late 1970s, Bras Basah Complex has long been nicknamed the “City of Books.” For decades it has been home to independent bookstores, printing shops, art suppliers, and quirky businesses that you won’t easily find elsewhere. Many students, artists, writers and even myself in Singapore have spent hours here hunting for books, sketching supplies, latest CD or simply soaking in the creative atmosphere.
Over the two decades with the improvement of surrounding infrastructure. It sits right in the heart of the arts and heritage district, surrounded by museums, schools, and galleries. In a way, it makes sense that murals have also found a home here — the building itself already has such a strong cultural DNA.
Purple colored smiling cat
Murals Beyond Chinatown
Chinatown’s wall art has become almost a rite of passage for visitors, but the flip side is that everyone has almost identical photos. At Bras Basah Complex, you get something different. The murals here reflected the cultural heritage in this complex space. And some of the murals you are finding are under shelter. So even if Singapore throws its classic afternoon downpour at you, you can still wander around and enjoy the art without rushing for cover.
This makes Bras Basah Complex a fantastic alternative for travelers who want a deeper, more relaxed experience of Singapore’s street art culture.
My Close-Up Approach
Here’s the thing: I’m not going to show you the murals in full. Instead, I’ve taken close-up shots that highlight textures, shapes, and details. Why? Because I want to leave the discovery to you. Photography, for me, isn’t just about pointing your camera and documenting — it’s about training your eyes to notice. In this case is quite easy to spot it.
Think of this as a gentle challenge. When you visit Bras Basah Complex, use my photos as clues and go on a little exploration. Let your curiosity guide you, and see if you can find the full murals hidden behind the fragments I’ve shared. At the same time you also explore some unique shops, bookstores and cafes here. You might even find something interesting to bring back home.
It’s a different way of seeing, and honestly, it’s what makes my private tours unique.
Why Close-Ups Tell a Bigger Story
When you zoom in, you notice things most people miss — the brush strokes, the weathering of paint, how a mural interacts with the surrounding objects or walls. Sometimes, it’s the way a line curves around a pillar. Other times, it’s how a color contrasts with the concrete.
To me, this is the Art of Seeing. You’re not just a tourist snapping “check-in” pictures. Or what the Chinese called “ 打卡“ (Dǎkǎ) You’re engaging with the environment, slowing down, and allowing details to surprise you.
Making It Part of Your Journey
Of course, Bras Basah Complex is just one example. In my custom private photography tours, you can choose where you want to go and what you want to explore. Maybe you’re into the iconic cityscape at Marina Bay. Maybe Little India’s vibrant colors call to you. Or perhaps you’d like to mix them all together — Chinatown, Kampong Glam, and Bras Basah in one longer route.
The point is, the itinerary bends around you. Unlike fixed tours, mine are designed to match your pace, your interests, and your style of photography. Whether you’re carrying a DSLR, a mirrorless setup, or just your smartphone, I’ll help you see Singapore differently — and of course, capture it beautifully through my coaching.
More than just you taking photos
If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, there’s one more thing my guests really appreciate: I also step in as your photographer. Using your own camera or smartphone, I capture photos of you at the landmarks we visit. That way, you walk away with personal keepsakes — not just the ones you take yourself. It’s instant, it’s authentic, and it’s one of the ways I make sure your time in Singapore is truly memorable.
Why Bras Basah Complex is worth a visit
So if you’ve already seen Chinatown’s murals — or if you simply want a quieter alternative — give Bras Basah Complex a chance. It’s artistic, historical, and surprisingly photogenic once you know where to look. And since most of the murals are all indoors or sheltered, it’s also a weather-proof adventure, perfect for Singapore’s unpredictable skies.
I’ve shared some close-up shots here as a teaser, but the real fun begins when you head there yourself. If you do find the murals I’ve hinted at, tag me on Instagram — I’d love to see your take on them. #CaptureAsiaPhotography
And if you’d like to go beyond Bras Basah, I’d be happy to design a private tour that takes you through the full spectrum of Singapore’s hidden gems. From street art to elevated view, temples to futuristic gardens, there’s always more to see when you slow down and let your camera guide the way.
Details of Customize Photography Private Tour
10hrs -$1080
8hrs - $865
6hrs - $650
Please email me for booking. Include the date, time and where you like to visit. Once details are settle, I set up an appointment and you can make payment. I look forward to serve your travel trip in Singapore.
