We went on a fun field trip! Here are some reflections.
Asian Civilisation Museum:
Calligraphic batik
Sumatra, Jambi, 20th century
“This batik features Arabic inscriptions repeatedly stamped onto the textile. The overall design of a central motif surrounded by four satellite motifs is derived from Buddhist mandalas. “
Hmong Baby carrier
Northern Thailand, earth 20th century
“This baby carrier shows the influence of China on hilltribe culture. It features auspicious motifs borrowed directly from Chinese designs.”
As a textile artist who are researching of the meaning of textile motifs. These two prints fascinates me. One part of my research is about the analysis of Hmong culture and from the descriptions of ACM, they didn’t mention the most important part, Hmong is an minority ethnic group traveled from China to southeast Asia. They have their own language and religious beliefs, tho similarities are found compare to the majority Han ethnic, but meanings of motifs on these textile can not be explained completely with general Chinese auspicious culture. The butterfly on the print does not serve a simple meaning of auspiciousness, the religion of Hmong culture believe their ancestor is a butterfly goddess who gave birth to everything, the Han culture believes that butterfly symbols the love between man and woman. Big difference!
The Calligraphic batik reminds me of the cosmos which is a show of mandala. The structure reminds me of solar calendar. I am aware that the reason for this print to look so symmetrical is because it is made with batik technique and it has the influence of Mandala, but I wonder of the numbers appeared on this print also has a layer of meaning? Everything seems to be even numbers.
Malay Heritage Centre
I enjoyed Malay heritage centre but sadly I did not take a picture. The most interesting part of the exhibition is the vintage Malay movies, I sat there and watched the playback of the compilation film again and again. The performance of Malaysian actors in the past were full of drama.
Indian Heritage Centre
Step Well
Edward Burtynsky
2010
This photograph attracted me because I felt certain peace and holiness from looking at the landscape. The bottom of the step well usually stores water, I can imagine walking slowly on the stairs towards the water must be a very spiritual experience, like the circle of life, water gave birth to everything, a journey to rebirth.