After consultation, I found that my initial idea was a little static.
Michael encouraged me to explore further such as discovering the reasons why specific people are drawn to specific places and how space is being utilised, what makes the characters in the space stand out? I did go back a couple of times to observe the people and place, however it just seems that it’s not quite up to my expectations (my initial thought was to bring out the diversity of life in a place).
I chanced upon this idea of documenting the life at Kreta Ayer Square, just a few mins walk from People’s Park, while I was having my location painting class. It is a place where you can meet people from all walks of life be it tourists, little kids, old folks etc. The whole place is filled with vibrancy, colours and culture! There were people there on their own and there were also groups of elderly people, looking like they were having the best time of their life!
It isn’t really crowded on a daily basis and it seems like most of the people there have known each other for a lifetime. The street performers were entertaining and people there were so enthusiastic that they would just sing and dance along. Compared to the hostile atmosphere in most of the places we go these days, Kreta Ayer Square exudes warmth and a sense of home. Instead of doing a photo series, I think videography is a better option in bringing out the energy of a place.
I get the opportunity to strike up a conversation with one of the elderly there – Mr Wong (Mr. Wong refused to be filmed/photographed). Instead of making it like a formal interview session, I decided to just let the conversation flows itself – just like meeting a new friend, keeping the topics open, merely talking about his life and thoughts on certain things.
He started sharing what his favourite food is in Chinatown and bits of his family as well as where he comes from. Surprisingly his hometown is in Johor! Mr Wong is an awesome soul; he is so adventurous for his age such that he will use his free time to take long bus rides travelling to different parts of Singapore and food hunting too! Besides, he kept emphasising on how important education is and that he regretted missing his chance.
Reflections
I find it hard to put myself out there in the public still. And I think this project has definitely pushed me a little further out of my comfort zone. Also, I think that the most precious thing in life is to be able to gain new perspectives just by talking to people, regardless if he or she is just a stranger because everyone you meet has a story to tell.
Below is the link to my documentation: