Merlions to Shorelines
Ang Song Nian x Milli Mycomaterials
“Merlions to Shorelines” by Ang Song Nian
Step into a mesmerizing realm where Singapore’s iconic Merlion takes on sixty remarkable new forms. Shorelines (2025), a thought-provoking exhibition by acclaimed artist Song Nian, invites you to explore the shifting stories and symbolism behind our nation’s beloved emblem. Presented by the National Gallery Singapore with the support of CapitaLand, this collection unveils fresh interpretations of a timeless icon.
Shorelines (2025) marks the latest iteration in Ang Song Nian’s ongoing exploration of national symbols and collective memory. Building on Your Blank Stare Left Me at Sea (2022), the project introduces Your Silence Welcomed Me Home (2025), featuring 30 original interpretations of the Merlion, by artists, creatives, and community collaborators. Presented alongside 30 Merlion figurines from the original series, this gathering invites reflection on how Singapore’s identity is shaped through ongoing change, negotiation, and evolving meaning of cultural symbols.
SG60, 60 Merlions, 3 Locations, Countless Stories.
Aligned with the nation’s SG60 celebrations, the exhibition offers a poignant reflection on our shared heritage and the paths that lie ahead. From carefully assembled materials to inventive artistic reinterpretations, each Merlion featured in Shorelines (2025) reveals its own unique story. Collectively, these sixty artworks capture the evolving spirit of Singapore, how everyday life is influenced by changing narratives, daily experiences, and shared memories.
Be sure not to miss this one-of-a-kind tribute to a national icon. Shorelines (2025) is now showing for a limited time at three separate locations, Clarke Quay, Raffles Place and Plaza Singapura. Visit anywhere between July 28 to August 25 to explore a captivating collection of exhibitional works reimagining the nation’s icon and reflecting on it’s lasting cultural meaning.
Our Little Contribution to Singapore.
A big big shoutout to Song Nian, for trusting and allowing Milli Mycomaterials to support and contribute to this exhibition! We’re ecstatic to have grown this special piece, that is so uniquely Singapore. The result is a sculptural form that embodies the ideals of sustainability and resilience, made entirely from a combination of mycelium technology and locally sourced waste materials.
The process that went into creating this one of a kind piece, not only reimagines a national Singapore icon the “Merlion”, through the lens of nature but also demonstrates the versatility of myco-materials. Mycelium materials are increasingly finding their place in the world of creative and artisan design, where sustainability meets craftsmanship. Designers and makers are embracing mycelium’s organic textures and natural forms to craft unique pieces ranging from sculptural works, furniture and lighting and home decor.
It’s ability to be grown into custom shapes and patterns allows for experimentation beyond the limits of traditional materials, resulting in pieces that are both functional and visually striking. Beyond aesthetics, creatives, artisans and designers value mycelium for its bio-degradability and low environmental impact, making it a medium that embodies both creativity and eco-conscious design.
