On the first Saturday of the trip, we visited the National Museum of Singapore and the Peranakan Museum. In the national museum we first experienced the ‘Story of the Forest’ which is an immersive three-dimensional animation that showcased a colourful landscape of Singapore’s nature. The sound of birds chirping and trees rustling along with the incredible visuals was so peaceful and serene. A deeper look into the exhibition’s purpose revealed to us that it ‘presents Singapore’s colonial past in contrast to its present-day modernity' (National Museum of Singapore, 2023). This is a theme that I recognised in other collections at the museum.
In the national museum we looked at the events in the past that have made Singapore what it is today. It was interesting to see the representation of cultural traditions and the development of urban Singapore and how they influence one another. For example, the photograph titled ‘"Energy" Rubber Tree, Ang Mo Kio Park’ showcases the practice of Ba Gua which is a form of walking meditation (Roots, 2016). This practice involves walking alongside a group of people around a tree in circular motion to welcome the energy from the tree into oneself. As seen in the image there is often a perfectly circular path around some trees, indicating the significance of the practice to Singapore’s culture. It was incredible seeing how this appreciation of nature was maintained in Singapore’s urbanisation later. I learnt that in 1971, Tree Planting Day was launched to encourage citizens to maintain the beauty and eco-friendly environment of modern Singapore.
Our next destination was the Peranakan Museum where we learnt more about the diversity of cultures that make up a large part of Singapore’s identity. Stepping into the Peranakan Museum in Singapore was like being transported into a captivating world of vibrant colours, intricate designs, and rich cultural heritage. The museum offered a truly immersive experience that allowed us to delve into the fascinating traditions and customs of the Peranakan community.
As we entered the museum, we were immediately greeted by the beautifully curated exhibits that showcase the opulent lifestyle of the Peranakan people. The galleries were filled with an array of artifacts, from ornate jewellery and delicate ceramics to intricately embroidered textiles and elaborate furniture. The displays not only highlighted the unique fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences but also reflected the Peranakan's distinct identity and creativity.
The museum provided a comprehensive understanding of the Peranakan way of life. We learnt about the traditions and rituals associated with Peranakan weddings, witness the elaborate costumes and accessories worn during these ceremonies, and learn about the symbolism behind them. Moreover, the Peranakan Museum offered a glimpse into the daily lives of Peranakan families through its detailed recreations of traditional Peranakan homes. These immersive installations allow visitors to step into the past and experience the atmosphere and ambiance of a bygone era.
References
Story of the Forest. (2023). National Museum of Singapore. https://www.nhb.gov.sg/nationalmuseum/our-exhibitions/exhibition-list/story-of-the-forest
“Energy” Rubber Tree, Ang Mo Kio Park. (2016). Roots.gov.sg. https://www.roots.gov.sg/Collection-Landing/listing/1350872#:~:text=They%20are%20practising%20Ba%20Gua,and%20East%20Coast%20to%20practice.