In celebration of the theme of Crop Diversity and its significance in cultural and agricultural history, this exhibition is one of over 30 exhibitions happening simultaneously across the globe. It is co-organised by the Botanical Art Society (Singapore) and the Singapore Botanic Gardens (SBG) as part of the second Botanical Art Worldwide Project, in conjunction with the Worldwide Day of Botanical Art celebrated on May 18.

Members of the Botanical Art Society (Singapore) have submitted botanical artworks exploring Heritage Crops—traditional plant cultivars not used in modern, large-scale monoculture agriculture; Crop Wild Relatives—wild species that can enhance cultivated crops or are foraged wild plants; and Ancient Crops—plants cultivated for centuries in their original form. Each piece has been carefully selected by a panel of expert botanists and botanical artists based on scientific accuracy, artistic merit, technical mastery, and overall impact.

Many of these plants hold deep personal meaning for the artists, evoking memories of home, family traditions, and cultural heritage. Some recall the familiar ingredients used in home cooking, while others are tied to crops central to traditional festivities.

Beyond their personal significance, these plants are valued for their roles in food, medicine, and textiles, representing a rich genetic diversity often overlooked in modern agriculture. By showcasing these lesser-known varieties, this exhibition underscores the importance of preserving plant biodiversity while celebrating the artistry of botanical illustration.

Join us in appreciating the vital role these plants play in shaping our past, present, and future.

Read more about Botanical Art Worldwide

Singapore Botanic Gardens is the only tropical garden honoured as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It ranks as one of Asia's top park attractions and was founded in 1859.

The Botanical Art Gallery is housed in a repurposed colonial bungalow which opened its doors in 2021.  A permanent display of historical botanical illustrations from the garden’s archives are shown on the upper floor and a rotating exhibition of contemporary botanical artworks are on display in two gallery rooms on the ground floor.

From 1st May 2025 to 2nd Novemeber 2025, the gallery will showcase the Botanical Worldwide Art (2025) Exhbition - Crop Diversity.

Read more about the Botanical Art Gallery