If you happen to stroll through the National Gallery Singapore (NGS), chances are you’ve probably come across an exhibit made entirely out of brinjals (yes, it’s true!)
As odd (or interesting) the exhibit may seem to the public, the 200 brinjals that were used to bring it to life have been decreasing—not due to natural decomposition, but alleged theft.
Brinjals go missing from exhibit
The brinjals, which are part of an exhibit named Still Life by Suzann Victor, was first installed in July at the DBS Singapore Gallery three on the second floor of NGS.
Based on a transcript for the exhibit, the purpose behind Still Life is to convey the concept of “authoritarian masculinity breaking down in plain sight”.
Despite concerns over potential food wastage, the brinjals are meant to be regularly replaced after their organic decomposition throughout the exhibition period for the next several years.
Since its debut, the exhibit has not only attracted widespread attention, but itchy hands from visitors too.
According to a report by The Straits Times (ST), several brinjals were reported to have gone missing due to visitors taking the purplish fruits for themselves.
Number of stolen brinjals unknown
In a statement, NGS said a sign had been put up to warn visitors against touching the exhibit and that its staff carries out regular inspections of the exhibit to maintain its integrity.
“We’ve observed that many visitors enjoy engaging with Still Life by taking photos and experiencing it up close, and we hope this interest continues in a respectful way.
“We kindly seek the public’s cooperation in preserving the artwork so that everyone can enjoy it in its intended form,” it said.
However, NGS didn’t disclose the number of brinjals that have been stolen so far or the reason behind the theft.
Back in 2023, a South Korean student went viral for devouring an exhibit of a banana taped to a wall:
