NAFA was established in 1938 as a fine art school with a mere 14 students. Today, we have transformed in tandem with the local arts scene to become a leading arts institution in Singapore. Our history is one filled with stories of courage and overcoming the odds—all of which contribute to our rich heritage, passion and conviction to inspire learning and growth in the arts. Read more about our milestones over the decades.

We are proud that our quality education and efficient corporate governance have been recognised with numerous awards and accolades.

As a not-for-profit private education institution with charity status, we receive financial support from Singapore’s Ministry of Education. Singapore’s Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) also matches each cash donation  dollar-for-dollar.

Nanyang Fine Arts Foundation Ltd is a holding company of Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) and NAFA International Pte Ltd and a not-for-profit organisation with charity status.

The Curriculum Development Advisory Committees (CDAC) engage industry partners and alumni to provide advice on curriculum and academic enhancements that would help to improve the skills and competencies of our graduates’ career prospects and professional growth. Each Committee also supports the respective NAFA programmes in the creation of networks, linkages and engagements with industry and other academic institutions.

NAFA International is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nanyang Fine Arts Foundation Ltd. Its operations include art and design services, linking art practitioners and well-known alumni members of NAFA with targeted projects. We embrace the business philosophy of imbuing creativity, maintaining exclusivity and sustaining professionalism to serve the ever-changing needs of the creative community.