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Written & illustrated by Wong Xiu Hui
Foreward The story of Alice starts like this, Alice enters Wonderland through a rabbit-hole, and from there her wild adventure in Wonderland begins and in Wonderland she learnt many things. Underlying themes behind the actual story of Alice in Wonderland include death as a constant and underlying menace as well as the tragic, unevitable loss of childhood innocence. Now here’s a story unlike the original Alice in Wonderland, it is a story where you should take part in, be part of the adventure, be your own alice and instead of only discovering Wonderland itself, make the museum a wonderland for yourself. Instead of death as a constant menace, think about the extinction of the cultural links, instead of the loss of childhood innocence, think about the loss of memories from the future generations. This publication brings to you a Singaporean girl named Alice, and the path she takes in the book, is the path you will take along with her, through this special museum trail, through the trail of the museum wonderland. Weird and distorted though it may sound, but believe it or not, you will indeed go on a journey of discovery and appreciation.
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story always has a beginning
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lice has never shown much interest in museums, in fact, which teenager in the right mind would want to spend a whole day visiting museums when one can actually complete assignments or take the day off and spend it with friends, go to the movies or just hangout. But on this fine day, for whatever reason there is, Alice found herself visiting the museums. It was a family outing actually, on a humble Sunday morning.
“Tell me again, why I’m here? The museum is no place for me, it’s just for curious little kids and old people, and Bugis Junction is just around the corner, I rather be there instead...” Alice mumbled to herself. “Come along Alice, over here to the Living Gallery of Fashion, the rest are already in there.” Mrs. Tan, her mother, stood by a white oaken door, inviting Alice in. “Um, it’s okay, I’ll just sit over there, you all take your time in there, don’t mind me.” Alice smiled and pointed to the seats not far away, and Mrs. Tan entered the gallery. “Now maybe after a short nap they’ll be back...” Alice thought and immediately fell into a slumber.
The National Museum Of Singapore With a history dating back to its inception in 1887, the National Museum of Singapore is the nation’s oldest museum with a progressive mind. It is custodian of 10 National Treasures, and its Singapore History and Living Galleries adopt cutting-edge and varied ways of presenting history and culture to redefine conventional museum experience. A cultural and architectural landmark in Singapore, the Museum hosts innovative festivals and events all year round – the dynamic Night Festival, visually arresting art installations, as well as amazing performances and film screenings – in addition to presenting thought-provoking exhibitions involving critically important collections of artefacts. The programming is supported by a wide range of facilities and services including F&B, retail and a Resource Centre. Notable Structure: The Glass Atrium Covering an area of 694 square metres of space and flanked by beautiful glass walls, the Glass Atrium sits next to the Singapore History Gallery, and links to the Singapore Living Galleries by way of the iconic Glass Passage.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “This is where the story begins, at the marvellous architectural building, the National Museum of Singapore. A fun fact, on the second floor, when you go through the journey as you read the book, you will come across a old-ish staircase which leads to the 3rd floor, near the photography gallery, well, this staircase has some mysterious and ghostly tales about it, if you don’t believe me, go look up on it, good luck!”
Address
Opening Hours
93 Stamford Road Singapore 178897 Tel: 6332 3659 For more information: www.nationalmuseum.sg
Singapore History Gallery: 10am-6pm daily (last entry: 5.30pm)
Admission Charges • Adult: $10 • Foreign Senior aged 60 & above, foreign students: $5 • Family package (group admission of up to 5 persons): $30 • Citizens, Permanent Residents(PRs) and children of 6 years of age & under: Free (permanent galleries and selected exhibitions) • Free admissions to Singapore Living Galleries from 6pm-8pm daily • Free guided tours from Mon-Sun. Please call 6332 3659 to enquire • Admission charges apply to special exhibitions. For these exhibitions, free admission continues to apply ro citizens and PRs who are students, teachers, senior citizens and NSFs as well as children of 6 years of age and under.
Singapore Living Galleries: 10am-8pm daily (last entry: 7.30pm)
Getting There By Bus • YMCA Bus-stop (08041) SBS: 7,14,14E,16,36,64,65,111,124, 128,139,162,162M,174,174E,175 SMRT: 77,106,167,171,190, 700,700A,NR6,NR7 • SMU Bus-stop (04121) SBS: 7,14,14E,16,36,111,124,128, 131,162,162M,166,174,174E,175 SMRT:77,106,167,171,190, 700,700A,857,NR7 By MRT The National Museum of Singapore is a 5minute walk from Bras Basah or Dhoby Ghaut MRT Stations and a 10-minute walk from City Hall MRT station.
GOOGLE ME: The National Museum of Singapore, Spiral Staircase
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Down The Rabbit Hole?
Dressed in the 50’s, Living Gallery: Fashion
Not knowing what woke her up, Alice found herself sitting in front of a white door. “This wasn’t where I took my nap, how strange…Maybe I’m supposed to go in, the rest (her family) could be in there?” Alice thought to herself. Slowly, she pushed the door forward, and entered into a dimly lit room. The first thing she saw was the dresses enclosed within a glass box. Looking upon herself on the reflection of the glass panel, she realized she was clothed in a blue dress, almost the same style as the dresses within the glass panels. “Ah…what happened to my crop tee, sling bag and boots? This is very peculiar, I could be dreaming.” But, as it was so rare for her to be wearing such vintage looking clothes, she had to take an ‘OOTD(Outfit Of the Day)’. Alice searched for her phone, thankfully it was in her new pouch, and took a shot. She then slowly went further into the room hoping to find her family. On the way, she looked at old-looking cosmetics and other style of clothing that were all encased within glass boxes and took further photos. “Am I really dreaming, this place is so interesting…” She reached the end of the room and still couldn’t find her family. “Maybe I should call them…” she checked her phone and there wasn’t any signal. “Okay, this is definitely a dream, my family isn’t here, my phone isn’t working and what happened to all the tourist?” She started to feel worried. “Wait, if this is a dream, a pinch will do the trick!” Anxiously, she pinched the fleshiest part of her cheeks as hard as she could, but to no avail. “OMG, am I stuck in my own hallucinations?” a wave of helplessness came over her.
The Living Gallery: Fashion
The Fashion Gallery reveals the fabric of Singapore society through popular music and displays of apparels, accessories and beauty products used by women from the 1950s to 1970s. The gallery explores the shifting identities of Singaporean women and helps visitors gain valuable insight into the socio-economic and political roles of women – from youths to homemakers and career women – in those decades of much change and progress. To reveal even more information, one of the most significant fashion changes occurred in the 1950’s, when a westernized form fitting outline replace the loose fitting traditional Asian silhouette. By the 1960’s, fashion preferences had become increasingly globalized. Many Singapore women updated traditional Asian garments with modern styles and fabrics, creating a distinctive hybridized look. Stirring your interest, some of the new fashion innovations then, like the mini skirt, raised social concerns about women’s modesty. Despite changes in women’s social status, they were expected to dress appropriately by covering certain parts of the body during particular occasions. So, girls back then were made to conform to certain standards of society, imagine how difficult it was for a lady back then. A special section of the gallery provides visitors with an idea of what goes on in a tailor’s workshop, giving an in-depth understanding of the process and techniques of how various traditional garments, such as the cheongsam, are made.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “Though I didn’t appear in this chapter, you’ll see me soon in the next, with my big entrance…okay it isn’t that big.., but I have to say, look how adorable Alice is in her 50’s Parisian style dress. Did you know, this kind of fashion started during the post-war and was influenced by the Parisian couture designer Chirstian Dior’s ‘New Look’. YOU DEFINITELY HAVE TO READ UP ON THE INFO! I REPEAT, DON’T FORGET THE INFO ON THE WALL!”
READ ME: Descriptions on the walls.
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The Pool of Tears (no flooding of the Museum)... A crude hatter and some food, Living Gallery: Food
Not knowing how to escape from the hallucinations she was having, she sat on the ground, with no hope and started tearing, which then led to crying… a very loud outburst. “Hey, would you stop crying, you’re really noisy you know?” a shadowed figure towered above her, which made her look up and into the eyes of a handsome stranger (at least it’s handsome to her). “What the hell, that was rude” with a blushed face she exclaimed. “I’m a helpless girl in lost and the this is how you comfort me. And who in the world are you? Why do you dress so weirdly, as if we’re in the 50’s? And how is it that you are in my dream?” “Why excuse me, you were making too much noise, and I just said what’s on my mind and woah, hold up with your question girl. Me, in your dream? You must be crazy, how is this a dream? and what I’m wearing is not weird, it’s the latest trend!” said the stranger. “Nevermind…” not wanting to bother with any more confusion, she sat there silently. “ After answering all your questions in one go, you just ignore it all…Okay this is now an awkward moment…why not a bottle of coke and Satay to liven the atmosphere, come!” he grasped Alice’s hand and led her out of the room and into another which showed a street filled with food and drinks. (Proceed to Food the Food Gallery, if you’re still in the Fashion Gallery...) “Here.” The stranger passed Alice a bottle labeled coke. “How do I know if it’s not poisoned?” questioned Alice. “Wow, and here I am trying to redeem myself as a gentleman and you just shoot it straight down, thank you very much,” and finally Alice laughed. “My name is Alice, you?” Alice said with a smile. “Just call me Hatter, the hatter.” He replied nonchalantly. “Why Hatter?” Alice was curious. “I make hats, duh…you are not very bright are you.” “One would hope for a face like yours, you wouldn’t be so crude…” Alice mumbled to herself. “Hey, there’s the satay” Hatter said and pointed at a stall not far off.
The Living Gallery: Food The Food Gallery recreates the vibrancy of Singapore’s street life from the 1940s to 1980s through the presentation of ten iconic dishes that originated from the street – complete with displays of food-related artefacts, audio-visual stations that show docu-style short films produced with archival photographs and oral histories, and a specially designed sound installation. The street food culture of Singapore, which developed from the last quarter of the 19th century, reflects the ethnic diversity, cross-cultural exchanges and cultural innovations of the country. One dish that is featured in the gallery would be the satay. Satay is actually from the Tamil word for flesh ‘sathai’, and satay refers to grilled marinated chicken, beef or mutton. The rich blend of spices which the satay is marinated with is what gives the satay such a rich flavor. An interesting section in the gallery features the different herbs and spices used back then and even today, some of which you might have encountered but have never heard of its name, or where it came from. This section also introduces to you the different smells of the spices and herbs.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “How was my entrance? I think I was like a white knight coming to her rescue, who provided the necessary company that she needed. Apart from that, the Satay is definitely one of my favorite dishes. Guess what kind of spices are used in the satay…I’ll give you a hint, READ THE DESCRIPTION ON THE WALL AGAIN, HAHA!”
READ ME: Descriptions on the walls.
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The Hatter’s Hobby Collection. B&W Photography, Living Gallery: Photography
“That was yummy, the best satay I ever tasted in my 18 years of existence!!” Alice exclaimed. “Wait, I didn’t know dreams could taste delicious, how weird,” she thought to herself. “I know right! The way the meat is marinated and cooked with such skill is so extraordinary! Hey, Alice, you wanna see something cool?” Hatter asked, with his eyes wide with eagerness. “Sure, seeing how excited you are, what are we going to see anyway?” Alice asked. Before getting a reply, hatter grabbed Alice’s hand and exited the door that they came through from and entered another with much enthusiasm.“I welcome you to my photography collection, apart from making hats, I do photography as a hobby” Hatter said proudly. Alice walked around the room, and saw antique Black and White (B&W) photographs that reflected so much story and emotion as well as old cameras that were nowhere to be found in present day shops. “Woah, these cameras are no longer sold in Sim Lim Square!” Alice whispered to herself, as she searched for her camera and took some shots. Hatter then invited Alice to sit around a table with him and he opened a book. In it, she saw a collection of more gray scale photographs and asked in awe, “ Just now you said ‘my photography collection’, did you photograph all these? They are too beautiful to be taken by you…” “Hey, don’t underestimate my abilities…at least you said they are beautiful, so let’s take it that you’re complimenting me.” Hatter replied and continued flipping the pages.
The Living Gallery: Photography Peer into 100 years of family life in Singapore through family portraits, albums and collections of old photographs. Photography, popularized from the late 19th century onwards, operates at the juncture of personal memory and social history and the Photography Gallery portrays local life through rare photographic images and precious artefacts. Thus, this gallery looks at how families in Singapore have evolved over the past hundred years through photography. The development of family history is relatively short in Singapore. Photography allowed the recording and capturing of Singapore’s family history for posterity. Whether it was through the professional eye of the studio photographer or the personal tone of the amateur, the family photograph was no longer only for the privileged few as it progressed through the years, It became a right for all. On display in the second room of the gallery is a selection of original black-and-white prints taken by the staff photographers of the National Geographic Society, providing a unique perspective of life in Singapore and Malaysia from the 1930s to the 1950s.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “ Now for this gallery, I won’t tell you to look at the words on the wall (because it’s already in the description), but do look at my photo collection. They’ll blow you away, I guarantee. In this gallery, don’t look at the description, look at the photographs and understand them, at most just appreciate them. Also, you might want to look at the cool cameras!”
LOVE ME: Images in booklets. (Free tables and seats for you to browse the booklets in peace)
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Storytelling: A Movie Date with the Hatter, Living Gallery: Film & Wayang
“ That was really an amazing collection, thank you for showing them,” Alice gave a wide smile. “ You’re welcome!” Hatter replied with a slight blush in his cheeks, and they exited the room. “Hatter, what’s that room over there, I hear noises coming from it…” Alice wondered. “Well, if you wanted a movie date with me, why didn’t you ask sooner? With my looks, I was starting to wonder why you’re not making a move on me…” hatter replied with a cheeky grin on his face, and grabbed Alice’s hand once again. “ A movie what? Movie? We’re going to see a movie? What kind of movie?” Alice asked frantically while being dragged by the hatter as they enter the room. “Yup, a movie date, and well you’ll soon find out what film we’ll be watching, so just sit back and relax.” Hatter sat close beside her on the long bench and the first images of the black and white film started playing.
The Living Gallery: Film & Wayang The Film & Wayang Gallery is made up of two sections. The Film section explores the production and consumption of films in Singapore from the 1950s to 1970s where the social history of leisure is traced through a display of cinema-related paraphernalia and clips from Lion City(1960), Singapore (1960) and several Malay films of the same period. In the Wayang Gallery, be amazed by the intricately sequined Chinese opera costumes and accessories worn by the opera veterans. Witness the spectacular Xin Sai Le Puppet Stage that belonged to Xin Sai Le, a Fujian troupe which came to Singapore in the 1930s from South China, and trace the development of Chinese opera and the emergence of home-grown films as popular entertainment in Singapore. Some history to know would be that after World War II, 2 major production companies emerged: Shaw Brothers’ Malay Film Productions (MFP) and Cathay-Keris Films. Operating a Hollywood-style studio system, they produced film that were exhibited through their respective cinema chains in Singapore and across the region. From the 1950s to the 1960s, these 2 studios alone made over 260 films. The 2 decades remain the most productive period in Singapore’s filmmaking history. Today, they are have their respective cinemas, namely Shaw Cinemas and Cathay Cineplex.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “This gallery serves as a resting point. With its dimly lit room, take a short break. Guys, get your girl to rest in this gallery, at the same time, enjoy a quiet company with her while watching the short clips provided. And for the girls, take this time to talk to you male companion, ask about the museum, or just have some quality time getting to know them better. Heed my advice, as you’ll be on a rather long journey afterwards…”
WATCH ME: Film repeatedly being played in the gallery
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inter mission Sounds Like a Wedding Not Far Off The Peranakan Museum
The Peranakan Museum The Peranakan Museum explores the culture of Peranakan communities in in Southeast Asia. Installed in the former Tao Nan Chinese School, built in 1912, this intimate museum possesses one of the finest and most comprehensive collections of Peranakan objects. Galleries on three floors illustrate the cultural traditions and the distinctive visual arts of the Peranakans. The Peranakan Museum provides a stimulating and educational experience for all, while representing the living culture of the Peranakan community in the region. The museum is a component of the Asian Civilisations Museum, operating under the National Heritage Board. Immerse yourself in the colorful history of Babas (male peranakans) and Nyonyas(female peranakans), and be awed by exquisite displays of intricately crafted jewelry, beaded slippers, gold and silver ornaments, textiles, ceramics and ornate furniture.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “The journey here will be a short one actually, follow your instincts and follow the map…still I pray you won’t get lost. Also, while you’re on your way, do keep your eyes opened, as you will see many fancy architecture around as well shops that are on the way to the Peranakan Museum, for example, the True Blue Cuisine, where you can eat genuine Peranakan Food, well here’s the list.”
Address
Getting There
39 Armenian Street Singapore 179941 Tel: 6882 7591/6332 3275 For more information: www.peranakanmuseum.sg
By Bus Alight opposite Singapore Managament University (SMU) SBS: 7,24,26,36,124,131,147,162,166,174 SMRT:61,77,167,171,190,700 By MRT The Peranakan Museum is a 5-minute walk from Bras Basah MRT station and a 10-minute walk from City Hall MRT station.
Admission Charges • Adult: $6 • Joint admission tickets to Asian Civilization Museum (ACM) and Peranakan Museum are also available. • Discounted admission on Fridays from 7pm-9pm. • 50% off admission prices for foreign seniors aged 60 & above, and foreign students. • Free admission for all Citizens and permanent Residents (PRs), and visitors aged 6 years and below. • Free guided tours from Mon-Sun. Please call 6332 7591 to enquire.
Opening Hours Mon-Sun: 10pm-7pm (Till 9pm on Fridays)
Others Select Books and Café (located at adjacent shophouses) Address: 51 Armenian Street Singapore 179939 Tel: +65 6337 9319 Website: www.selectbooks.com.sg True Blue Cuisine Address: 47/49 Armenian Street Singapore 179937 Tel: +65 6440 0449/4548 Website: www.truebluecuisine.com
FIND ME: Locate the Peranakan Museum safely
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The Peranakan Parade The Peranakan Museum, Wedding Galleries 2-5 (level 2)
“HAHAHA, look how terrified you were at all the jump scares, I should do more movie dates, hahaha!” Hatter gleefully said, as Alice exited the room with him. “ Stop laughing! If only you had told me it was a horror film sooner, I could’ve mentally prepared myself…” Alice pouted with blushed cheeks, feeling so embarrassed at her reactions. “Now, now, at least you were cute back there.” He earnestly replied, and Alice felt much better, thus giving him a shy smile. “By the way, I’ve been wanting to ask, do you know how I can stop these hallucinations and maybe find my family?” Alice asked. “Why do you keep insisting this is a dream? I don’t actually know how to get you to stop dreaming, that’s just ridiculous. And well, since I’m free, why not I accompany you to find your family?” Hatter replied and they both agreed to the arrangement, ending off with Alice thanking hatter for trying to help her out. They soon see a large door, and entered it. It led to a winding road, not sure whether it was long though. Suddenly, Alice heard an array of noises, “Hey, do you hear that? It’s coming from over there!” She pointed at a building not far from where they were. “Yes, I do hear something, why not let’s check it out!” Together, they approached the large majestic building and entered it. “Hey, it’s a Peranakan Wedding! Alice, you’re in luck!” Hatter exclaimed and Alice, feeling all excited, took her phone out and prepared to capture as much images as she could. Alice and Hatter found themselves caught in the midst of a crowded parade. Musical instruments played in the background and the people’s excited chatter filled the atmosphere, creating a cacophony of noises. Suddenly, Alice gazed upon a beautiful lady, dressed in a weird-looking costume of some kind, beside was a charming man that wore something as equally traditional as hers. “Those are the wedding couple, isn’t that lady hot!” Hatter exclaimed, though his voice was almost muffled by the surrounding noises. “Yes the lady is beautiful, but I think her husband is really charming in those clothes.” Alice replied at the top of voice. “Shall we go to some place quieter, I can’t hear you well here,” Hatter suggested. And with a nod, Alice followed him.
The Wedding Galleries 2-5 Do you know that the whole wedding ceremony takes place over a duration of 12 days? Explore the many rituals of the traditional Peranakan wedding in these galleries. Learn about the coming of age(Chiu Thau) and exchange of the gifts(Lap Chai) ceremonies, and peek inside the wedding chamber. The extensive collection of Peranakan Beadwork, which is an essential element of the wedding, is displayed here as well. Further elaborating on the gallery, the wedding chamber includes 2 beds and a full set of embroidered hangings decorated with auspicious Chinese motifs. The beds were donated by the Chee family, one of the oldest Peranakan families in Malacca, and have been in the family since the early 20th century. For the Beadwork, the gallery includes a beadwork tablecloth which was originally from Penang part of the early 20th century. More than a million glass beads were used to make the tablecloth, and it is the largest known example of Peranakan beadwork. Its design depicts a variety of European and South American birds and flowers, as well as a few Asian species.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “Well, you will definitely be in awe because of that bed chamber, damn, the bed is big. Respect the bed! Side tracking here, make sure to finding the embossing tools around the different galleries, you’ll definitely love it.”
EMBOSS ME:
Take a copy of the colorful circle wheel from the counter on the first level and fill the paper embossed images
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Meeting Cheshire (not a cat) And a change of clothes, Language & Fashion Gallery 6 (level 3)
“ That was so damn fun! I certainly learnt something interesting! The embroidery was effortless, the jewelry were exquisite, the furniture, especially the large bed was spectacular!” an enthusiastic Alice said. “Yes, sing your praises! I am so proud to be a Peranakan!” Hatter replied with a proud stance. Suddenly, Alice felt a tug on her dress. She turned and saw a little boy dressed in traditional-like clothing. “Hey, where do you come from, are you lost?” Alice bent down and inquired the little boy. “Um, that would be my little brother, Cheshire,” said Hatter. “Cheshire? That’s such a cute name!” Alice exclaimed. “Lil’ bro, why are you here?” asked Hatter. And Cheshire replied, “Mum asked to me to remind you to prepare for lunch…she said we have guests today so you have to dress well.” “ Prepare?? Oh shit…Alice we might need to change…” Hatter said with a worrisome face And Cheshire tugged at Alice dress to lead her into a room filled with Peranakan Clothes. “Wait, I have to change too? Why?” Alice was really confused. “No time to ponder, we have 15 minutes!” and Hatter started to remove his top garment while Alice caught a glimpse of his bodily muscles and immediately turned to pick a set of clothes as she tried to cool the redness in her cheeks.
Language & Fashion Gallery 6 The language and dress of Peranakans were influenced by life Sountheast Asia. Learn about their language, Baba Malay, through the displays and listen to recordings. One interesting feature is the interactive vintage phones. Allowing you to picture yourself as a Peranakan back then, the stories behind the voices you hear through the phone reflect the many stories back then, and you will feel that you were part of it, thus taking you back to the past. Also, observe how attire of choice changed over time with shifting notions of fashion and feminity. Intricate clothing embroidery are featured as well, esplecially on the traditional nyonya clothing displayed. For example, the kebaya, it is a garment most associated with the Peranakan community, with the garment being fastened with brooches and worn with a sarong, the Kebaya is the garment most associated with the Peranakan community. Elaborately embroidered and trimmed with lace, they became the height if fashion in the early 20th century.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “There’s nothing much to say here, what you have to do is observe and look at the items behind the glass panels closely first hand. I have to say, Alice looks lovely in a Kebaya, I knew she could pull it off. This actually shows how versatile Peranakan clothes are, as they can fit beautifully in every person in my opinion.”
TOUCH ME: Make sure you give the phones a try
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A Peranakan Feast With the Hatter’s Family, Food & Feasting Gallery 9 (level 3)
“Woah you look good in Peranakan clothing!” Hatter said in an astonished tone. “Yes! Very pretty!” Cheshire gave a wide smile and Alice could see the honesty in his compliments through his sparkling eyes, which made Alice feel really happy. “Now, let’s go to the dining hall.” Instead of grabbing her hand like the previous times, hatter offered his hand, and Alice shyly but willingly accepted it. They entered a arch and was welcomed by a whole long table filled with the prettiest Chinaware and an elegant lady was sitting on the furthest end of the table. “Welcome back Hatter, a little bird told me you brought company and from the looks of it, she is a beautiful Nyonya, and could be a befitting wife. Come dear, I’ve prepared all this just for us to interact during lunch!” the lady, which Alice assumed was Hatter’s mother, spread her arms out wide as a sign of invitation. “WIFE?!” Hatter and Alice both exclaimed at the same time. “Very good synchronization! There’s very good chemistry! A plus point!” Hatter’s mum sung a melody as she spoke. Hatter couldn’t feel more embarrassed and Alice couldn’t help but laugh at his mother’s enthusiasm in matchmaking.
Food & Feasting Gallery 9 Your experience cannot be complete without an exploration of the food and dining customs of the Peranakans. Learn about colorful nyonyaware porcelain, used to serve delicious dishes blending Chinese, Malay, Indian, Thai, European and Indonesian ingredients and methods. Featuring the Kamcheng from the late 19th or early 20th century gift of Mrs Khoo Soo Beow, Kamchengs came in many sizes and were used to store and serve food. They are perhaps the most recognizable form of nyonaware-the brightly coloured chinese porcelain favoured by the the Peranakans. Also, you will not miss the large dining table featured, displayed with a complete set meal of tableware, you can almost picture yourself having a delightful Peranakan feast. As well as the kitchen display, simulating an actual Peranakan kitchen, this display will take you behind the scene of a typical Peranakan house kitchen, with the woodens chairs, and lid covers, as well as the olden sets of non-ornamental glassware, typically found in the kitchen.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “That was an awkward feast, oh mum…okay, apart from my mum, I would just like to say that you are missing out a lot if you haven’t tried Peranakan Food, the whole feast provides a variety of flavours that would surely provide you a hearty meal. I suggest that you try to use the interactive panel available so as to learn more about the Peranakan Feast.”
WATCH ME: On the hour, watch a Peranakan kitchen come to life in the special video at the kitchen area.
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Feelings From The Hatter A Peranakan Gift, Peranakan Museum Gift Shop True Blue Shoppe (level 1)
Alice had such a great feast, she couldn’t help but gobble everything up in one go as Hatter’s mother insisted her to eat as much as she could. Hatter and Alice thanked for the food and left the Peranakan House as Hatter’s mother ordered the household to clean up the table and start preparing for dinner. “I really enjoyed the meal.” Alice said gleefully. “Of course, my mum’s a great cook!” Hatter said with such great affirmation. While walking, Alice and Hatter spotted a lovely little shop, in it, it sold the lovely nyonyaware that Alice just saw at Hatter’s family table. “I forgot to mention to your mother just now about how beautiful the nyonyaware were, like those in the shop, they look so lovely.” Alice stared into the glass panel of the shop, mesmerized at the intricate and delicate details of the porcelains. Hatter stayed silent while looking at the same direction that Alice was, and then he said, “Wait here, on the bench.” And he settled Alice down before going into the shop. Not long after, Hatter came back holding a small little nyonyaware in hand, which made Alice wonder what he was going to do with it. He sat close to Alice, took one hand with his, and as he cupped Alice’s hand with his fingertips, he settled the precious-looking nyonyaware into her hands. “Here, a present to commemorate our fated encounter!” Hatter said behind a flushed face, as he tried to force a smile, keeping his embarrassment intact. “Thank you hatter.” That was all Alice could say while managing a lovely smile, surprised by the sudden gift. “Hey, let’s take a selfie too!” Suddenly Alice had a great idea. “What’s a selfie?” Hatter, recovered from his embarrassment, said. “This is a selfie.” Alice directed Hatter to stare at the phone and she took the shot.
Peranakan Museum Gift Shop: True Blue Shoppe You can’t take the Peranakan Museum home, but you can take away the best of all things Peranakan just by visiting the charming True Blue Shoppe. Located near the entrance of the Peranakan Museum, True Blue Shoppe is a treasure trove of traditional sarongs, fine antique jewellery, porcelain in the vibrant hues Peranakans are famous for, and true blue souvenirs every Peranakan lover would appreciate. The shop retails all things Peranakans such as antique silverware, antique rose-cut jewellery, beaded shoes, sarongs, hand-embroidered bespoke kebayas, antique and replica porcelain. You can find CDs for keronchong songs, Peranakan songs and Peranakan shows. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything at all, why not use the shop as a free gallery for you to actually touch the nyonya porcelain that was the glass panels in the galleries, in this way, you get to understand and know the texture of the nyonyaware as well as have a better appreciation of what was featured in the museums.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “Now, a tip here for you guys out there, why not get a small nyonyaware for your special girl, the intricate details in the porcelain, will surely intrigue her. Purchase one if you have the money, and if you don’t, maybe take a picture, or find the cheapest souvenir in the shop.”
BUY ME: If you have the money, buy a nyonyaware porcelain.
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(Intermission 2) Onto the Last Stop The journey there, The Philatelic Museum
“Doesn’t seem like my family’s here, maybe we should continue searching other places,” Alice said, feeling quite weary about not being able to find her family. Thus, they continued their journey through the winding road, and Alice and Hatter breathlessly made their way, hoping for an end to the long path. Finally, up ahead, they saw another building, not as majestic as the last, but magnificent nonetheless, and it was where the road will come to a stop. “Oh, maybe your family’s in that building?” Hatter exclaimed. “Yes, they could be…” Suddenly, Alice could feel her world turning and as she said in shortened breaths, “Um, hatter, I feel kind of faint…” “Don’t be ridiculous, we just had such a lovely feast and come on Alice, the last stop is over there…Alice? ... ALICE!!!” Hatter catches Alice before she falls to the ground.
The Philatelic Museum Discover the world through postage stamps, for they are pieces of art that feature significant events, history, heritage and cultures of a country. Singapore Philatelic Museum is the first of its kind in the region, showcasing Singapore’s philatelic heritage and postal artifacts since the Straits Settlements era. The permanent galleries introduce the world of philately, the world’s first stamp, and how stamps are a window to the world – affording windows into diverse areas such as science, technology, history and culture. Throughout the year, the museum holds special exhibitions on topics related to current social and cultural trends. It also organises educational activities for schools and members of the public, to promote learning and discovery through philately.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “ The road is short, you can see it from where you were (at the Peranakan museum). What is interesting here would be the architecture of the Philatelic Museum, almost resembling an old colonized building. Guess what the building was used for before it became the Philatelic Museum…”
Address
Opening Hours
23-B Coleman Street Singapore 179807 Tel: 6337 3888 For more information: www.spm.org.sg
Mon: 1pm-7pm Tue-Sun: 9.30am-7pm
Getting There
Admission Charges • Adult: $6 • Foreign Seniors aged 60 & above, and foreign students: $5 • Free admission for all Citizen and Permanent Residents (PRs), and visitors aged below 3 years. • Please call 6513 7347 for group visits.
By Bus Alight along Hill Street or North Bridge Road SBS: 2,12,32,33,51,63,80, 124,145,147,166,174,197 SMRT: 61 By MRT The Singapore Philatelic Museum is a 50minute walk from Bras Basah MRT station and a 10-minute walk from City Hall or Clarke Quay MRT stations.
GOOGLE ME: (again) History of The Philatelic Museum
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Alice is Unwell The Hatter’s Knowledge put to the test @ ‘Spice Is Nice’ Gallery
“Alice, what’s wrong? You need to tell me, so that I can find a cure.” Hatter said worriedly, as he piggybacked her towards the last building. “My stomach, it really hurts…” Alice painfully said, as she squeezed her eyes shut. Her lips were no longer a healthy red and beads of sweat trailed down how paling face. “Stomach ache? You must have overeaten just now. Alice I need you to wait for awhile more, we’re reaching the last building.” Hatter quickened his pace, hoping that there would be something in the building to help lessen Alice’s pain. As they reached the 2 story white building, Hatter saw a sign that said, ‘Spice Is Nice, 2nd Floor”, and thought “ Spice Is Nice? Are there spices? Maybe I can find something to cure Alice!” With all his might, he carried Alice up the flight of stairs onto the second floor and found the room labeled ‘Spice is Nice’. Entering the room, Hatter caught a whiff of the spice and herbal aroma, and felt relieved that there might be a chance to cure Alice’s stomach pains. He was even more glad when the spices were in sight. Immediately, he settled Alice against a wall on the ground nearby and proceeded to search the variety of spices available. “Now, what was that again…we need honey and…” Hatter thought deeply.
‘Spice Is Nice’ Gallery ‘Spice is Nice’ exhibition traces the voyages of discovery, spice trade, colonisation, migration pattern, life in early Singapore, traditional cures and flavours of regional cuisine. The second section of “Spice is Nice” includes the re-enactment of old markets as well as cultural dishes. As Singapore’s multicultural people came from the Malay Archipelago, China, the Indian subcontinent and Europe. From these different lands, they brought various customs, festivals, religions, languages and cuisines. Old markets in Singapore were set up along streets or near points where goods were uploaded from boats. With the same spices but varied proportions and cooking methods, the different races serve amazingly different dishes. The exhibition features many hands-on activities and multimedia programmes for visitors to explore and discover the development of Singapore from the 19th century, and the uses and properties of spices as well as the ingredients behind some of the famous Singaporean cultural dishes.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “Now what am I supposed to use…Do you think you can help me recall, well maybe you could give it a try. Apart from just looking at the lovely displays of spices and the re-enactment of the wet market scenes, why not give the interactive panels a go. You might think it’s lame, but you’ll be surprised to know how fun and informational they can be, so do give them a try.”
USE ME: Have a go with the interactive panels in the exhibition and learn more about spices and ingredients.
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Almost Back To Reality Timeline towards the present Room of Rarities Gallery
“Thanks hatter, I feel so much better now.” Alice said softly, her strength regaining. “ Thank god I remembered cinnamon and honey, if it was the wrong spice, I could have made it worse.” Hatter sighed thankfully. Alice tried to get up, but her legs wobbled and she almost fell, thankfully hatter caught her in time once again. “Hey, I know you’re anxious to find your family, but you seriously need to rest for awhile more.” Hatter said and passed her a bottle of water. “ I helped you refill it just now.” Alice took the bottle and gulped down a mouthful of water, after which she asked, “Then Hatter, did you see anyone else when you entered the building, like maybe my family members?” Alice then took her phone out to show him her family picture, “Seem familiar?” “Nope, I saw no one like them.” Hatter replied, causing Alice to be overwhelmed by a wave of anxiety. Seeing how worried Alice was, Hatter suggested, “Well, I was wondering…if like you said, you aren’t able to contact them through the line and if we still can’t find them here, why don’t you try mailing them?” “I’m willing to try any possible means at this current juncture, let’s mail then.” As Alice stood upright and tried to regain her balance, Hatter pulled out a postcard from his front pocket, “Here, you might want to write the message on this postcard. And we just need to find the right mailbox for you to mail it.” Thus, together, Alice and Hatter ran hand in hand, frantically searching for the different mailboxes, which spanned from the past till the present.
Room Of Rarities Gallery The gems of Singapore philately are displayed at the Room of Rarities. These include stamps and archival philatelic material from 1800s till today, and artefacts relating to Singapore’s postal history. Dedicated to Singapore’s rich postal history, the Room of Rarities displays some of the largest, finest and most comprehensive collections of philatelic items. The much sought-after cover that bears all four values of the first set of stamps to be introduced in Singapore in 1854 is also part of the Gallery. To sum it all up, the Room of Rarities showcases the museum’s permanent collection. Spanning across almost 200 years, the collection traces the philatelic and postal milestones of Singapore from the Straits Settlements period to today. Some of the rarities on display are the early Queen Victoria covers and postage stamps, essays, proofs and other archival materials of the three kings collection, and postal artifacts. Also, Star pieces include the only known cover in the world, to bear a full set of 1854 Indian stamps that were used in the Straits Settlements.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “There’s a few postage bags in the gallery, to fully immerse yourself into the atmosphere of the room, why not grab a bag or two and pose for a shot? Just a suggestion you know, so is it a go or no go?”
SNAP ME: Take a few shots while posing with the makeshift postage bags
The Loo
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A Postage Home & A Kiss Goodnight Touching Goodbye; Colonial Postbox
“I think this is the one, box no. 17401.� Alice was so sure that this would definitely get her message to her family. After searching around, Alice and Hatter finally stumbled upon this colonial mailbox coated in red and black. At one glance, Alice somehow felt that this was her champion. Alice took out a pen from her pouch and started to write the message onto the postcard. After which, she was all prepared to mail it and with each passing second, Hatter and Alice nervously pushed the postcard into the mailbox.
Suddenly, the world around her started to turn pitch black , and Hatter slowly became more and more invisible, Alice’s eyes opened wide and with that, Hatter realized that he was disappearing. He held onto Alice’s shoulder and said, “It was such an amazing adventure dear Alice and you did well with your enthusiasm but now I need to say a last goodnight.” “Goodnight?” and before Alice could ask, Hatter leaned forward and kissed her forehead. The last word that echoed in Alice’s ear was goodnight.
Colonial Mailbox The colonial mailbox located just outside the museum is a special mailbox. It is fully operational, and the only one of its kind in Singapore. Picture yourself back in the colonial days, mailing a letter to a friend overseas, a wife back home or your parents, you’ll definitely experience this special feeling through this colonial mailbox. Information about this particular mailbox is available in the Room of Rarities, so if you’ve not paid attention to the gallery previously, make sure to make your way back to learn more about this beautiful mailbox.
HATTER’S DIALOGUE: “Retrieve the postcards from the slot located at the end of the publication. Write a message to yourself, about your museum experience with this publication and mail it to yourself using the colonial mailbox, located outside the Philatelic Museum. You’ll definitely receive it, trust me, I’ve tried. You must be terribly tired, as alice have been, but i pray you’ve enjoyed the journey thus far and i hope to see you once again. Goodnight!”
MAIL ME: Make sure to use the postcard provided in the publication and mail it to yourself, or to someone special.
Epilogue
“My, my, she must be so tired. I don’t know what got into her, she was so hyper for the whole day.” Mrs Tan said, as she stared at a tired Alice, sleeping on her thighs. “Let’s not wake her, she’s fast asleep, the drive home would be able to satisfy her slumber” Mr Tan said as he started the engine. “Goodnight.” Mrs Tan whispered as she brushed the tiny hairs covering Alice’s forehead and gave a small little peck on it.
Fin
Afterword Now, Alice never liked museums as explained in the beginning, but you see, there’s always many opportune moments for us to take something and look at it in a more interesting way and that’s the true theme behind Alice. The actual Alice in Wonderland talks about how a young Alice looks at herself growing up in the most unusual yet peculiar, to the point of interesting, way, and for this story is how Alice turns something so dull like visiting a museum, to an amusing ride through the help of the vividly personified galleries. Now, this was how i looked at it when i visited the museums, Alice is a character who acts as reflection of myself. To add on, hatter was not just a companion for alice in the journey, he represented, in real life, the rich culture of the museums, his vivid nature reflected the diversified personality of every single part of the 3 museums . I would like to thank all those around me, my friends, wonderful classmates & amazing lecterurs for making this publication come alive. Without them, i would not have the confidence to complete this publication. Thank you to National Heritage Board as well, for their informational brochures and floorplans, as well as wall texts in the museum, as without those information, I could’ve have reached past 5000 words. While reading this book, I hope you’ve met hatter and learnt something from him. Keep a curious and open mind, and make the best out of everything you do and
Special thanks to :