Plastic Tiger by Bordalo II – A Roaring Statement at Esplanade, Singapore

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At first glance, it commands attention with its bold colors, dynamic posture, and sheer size. But look closer, and this is no ordinary tiger; it is an artistic paradox, both majestic and alarming. Standing proudly outside Esplanade, Theatres on the Bay, the Plastic Tiger sculpture by Bordalo II is one of Singapore’s most thought-provoking public artworks.

A Tiger Made of Trash

Created by Portuguese eco-artist Artur Bordalo, popularly known as Bordalo II, the Plastic Tiger is constructed entirely from discarded plastic waste: broken toys, crates, pipes, car parts, cables, and other industrial debris. Each component, once carelessly thrown away, is now repurposed into a meaningful whole: a tiger that leaps forward in defiance and desperation.

This sculpture is part of Bordalo II’s ongoing “Big Trash Animals” series, a global public art initiative that uses large-scale animal figures to highlight the dangers of pollution and consumer waste, especially plastic. By building wild animals out of the very materials that threaten their survival, the artist exposes the irony and urgency of our ecological crisis.

Plastic Tiger by Bordalo II - Singapore
Plastic Tiger by Bordalo II - Singapore


Why a Tiger?

The tiger is not a random choice. It is one of the most endangered apex predators in the wild and also a significant national icon of Singapore, often symbolizing strength, resilience, and courage. By rendering this revered creature in plastic debris, the sculpture delivers a powerful message: even the strongest species are vulnerable in the face of human neglect.

Its placement near the Esplanade’s dome, familiarly known as “The Durian”, creates a stunning contrast between the polished architectural landscape and the chaotic vibrancy of upcycled waste.

Plastic Tiger by Bordalo II - Singapore
Plastic Tiger by Bordalo II - Singapore


Art That Confronts and Educates

Unlike traditional sculptures intended purely for aesthetic admiration, the Plastic Tiger invites reflection. It challenges viewers to examine their own consumption patterns, plastic usage, and relationship with nature. With Singapore’s growing emphasis on sustainability and green living, this installation aligns perfectly with national conversations around environmental responsibility.

Families, students, tourists, and eco-enthusiasts pause by this sculpture, not just for photographs, but also to read, reflect, and even engage in impromptu discussions about recycling, conservation, and art as activism.

Quick Facts for Visitors

  • Location: In front of Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Singapore

  • Entry Fee: Free; the sculpture is in a public outdoor area

  • Artist: Artur Bordalo (Bordalo II), from Portugal

  • Material: Recycled plastic waste and industrial junk

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for ideal lighting


In a city known for its pristine skyline and futuristic efficiency, the Plastic Tiger stands out - raw, colorful, and confrontational. It’s not just a feast for the eyes but food for thought. It exemplifies how art, when paired with purpose, can transform everyday waste into a powerful call for change.

Next time you stroll along Marina Bay, make a stop at this sculpture. You’ll walk away not just with photos, but with questions that matter.

Happy travelling.

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Location: Singapore

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