The connection between arts and disability in Singapore has gradually evolved, moving from viewing the arts as a service to advocating for disability-led creation. Standing at the forefront of this movement is SG Enable, the focal agency for disability and inclusion, which actively celebrates the creative contributions of disabled artists and works to build an inclusive arts scene that grants them access to equal opportunities.
To commemorate the 10th anniversary of Enabling Village, an inclusive hub for dining, wellness, and retail, SG Enable continues empowerment through inclusive environments with the launch of the i’mable Collective Space. This space will be instrumental in developing innovative training and employment models in the creative sector while showcasing the artistic potential of people with disabilities. Inclusive arts transcends mere accessibility. It involves empowering marginalised groups like those with disabilities through opportunity and collaboration.
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No disability is overlooked or disregarded: The space unites pan-disability creatives into one integrated hub. Spanning 800 sqm, this spacious community space is an integrated ecosystem managed by weareSuper, the inclusive design arm of Singaporean lifestyle store, Supermama. The hub houses eight partners and features a comprehensive setup: Retail stores, cafes, a studio, and a gallery. Key partners include Postboy Coffee, Hyper Projects, Pear Books, Hullabaloo, Young Gallery, and Foreword Coffee Roastery & Academy.
Dedicated to championing disability-led creation, this initiative creates opportunities for community and business engagement. Through co-creation, exhibitions, and product sales, it provides increased exposure for the creatives and their work. The working studios of artists will be open to the public, inviting visitors to step directly into their world of lived experiences, which offers fresh perspectives on creativity and life.
The concept of collaboration between artists and enterprises is not entirely new. Through I’mable Collective’s partnership with Singapore Fashion Council late last year, over 40 individuals with disabilities were able to debut a capsule collection after receiving training and being employed by local businesses.
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Design Social Exhibition
Kicking off the space’s programming is the inaugural exhibition, Design Social. The show aims to elevate the recognition of disabled creatives, bringing works from "EMERGE 2025: Dialogue through Design", first exhibited at FIND – Design Fair Asia, to the new space. The exhibition explores the power of design and the influence it has on society, culture and the environment. With voices from all across the region, many creations include modern interpretations of tradition, one of the factors shaping the cultural landscape in Southeast Asia.
As more doors open for people with disabilities in the creative industry, this initiative lays the foundation necessary for these individuals to build confidence, foster independence and participate in society.
The Design Social exhibition runs from now till 12 December 2025, 12pm to 6pm, at the Young Gallery, i’mable Collective Space. The i’mable Collective Space is located in Enabling Village, 20 Lengkok Bahru.