The Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) Glossary of art terms is a collection of existing signs for terms used in the contemporary art world, and new signs that reflect the evolving language of contemporary art. These new signs were created with Deaf consultants from the Deaf and Hard of hearing community who played a pivotal role in this project.

Through focus groups and dialogues on contemporary art, SAM curators and colleagues, artists and academics shared contexts and insights about the terms for the Deaf consultants to create the new signs.

This glossary will continue to grow and evolve as we engage in further discussions with the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Hearing and art communities. Our goal is to ensure the signs remain relevant and useful to the community. If you're from the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community and curious about the project, please feel free to contact SAM at [email protected].

Consultants from the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community:
Hina Liang
James Ong
Jane Lim
Lily Goh
Lisa Loh
Shalini Gidwani

Experience SAM’s first tactile booklet adaptation of an artwork in our collection! Selections from artist Nguan’s photographic series – Singapore can now be explored through touch!

Created with the visually impaired community in mind, the booklets use the Tactile Colour System (TCS) developed by Beyond Vision International to enable understanding of colours through texture.

Audio descriptions are available below. The booklet and self-guided engagement will be made available for the public in the Learning Gallery.

Experience a tactile map of SAM in Tanjong Pagar Distripark. Created with the visually-impaired community in mind, the map allows one to navigate around the space with greater familiarity.