NOL Group boxes clever to make an artistic impression

September 11, 2008: APL, the container shipping business of Neptune Orient Lines (NOL), this week helped create an innovative connection between the humble cargo container and the art world. The company's cargo containers are helping to create a unique art installation in the heart of Singapore.

The Containart Pavilion is a temporary building constructed from 150 of APL's 20-foot containers and 34 10-metre recyclable paper tubes.

It is the brainchild of Japanese artist, Shigeru Ban. He is renowned for using low cost and sustainable materials in his work – an approach that is exemplified by the Containart Pavilion. By employing marine containers and giant paper columns to form its walls and hold up its roof, he has created a recyclable structure which will house some major artworks.

The Containart Pavilion is part of the second Singapore Biennale, which is the city state’s premier contemporary visual arts festival. The event is organised by the National Arts Council and features the works of more than 50 artists and art collectives from around 36 countries.

The building, which is located at Marina Bay in Singapore's central business district, will house an exhibition of contemporary art from 11 September until 16 November. Once the project ends, the containers will return to service in the world's shipping lanes.

NOL Group President & CEO, Ron Widdows, said: "Shigeru Ban's work is truly unique. He has made an inspiring connection between container shipping and contemporary art. We are honoured to support his work for a second time."

This is the second time the NOL Group has supported a Shigeru Ban architectural installation. In 2006, APL containers were a vital part of the museum constructed on the New York City waterfront.

"NOL's involvement in these projects is part of our commitment to contributing positively to communities around the world," said Mr Widdows.

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