Nostalgic Reflection: Modern Colony (1925-1935) Week 3

FIELD TRIP

(Week 3)

National Museum of Singapore: Modern Colony (1925-1935)

During the eve of Chinese New Year, Prof Galina arranged a field trip for us to study the textures and materials that were used during the olden period. Bringing back the Nostalgic event.

Heading down to the National Museum of Singapore for the Life in Singapore: Modern Colony exhibition. It is an exhibition that is permanent in the National Museum of Singapore and admission is free to Singaporeans and PRs, showcases the different kind of clothing’s and valuables that was used during the British colonial rule. Learning about the different way of life compared to today’s modernism is an interesting knowledge to gain. The different kind of objects used and the different kind of dressing that was worn during the time was so intricate and unique in their own way.

What caught my eyes straight away was the intricate design of the clothing’s that was place right at the end of the exhibition overlooking the entrance when I enter. The heavily beaded and sequin gowns and also the heavily embroidered with flower buttons shows what the wealthy British and Chinese wore when that go for parties.

The whole exhibition is filled with love and devotion not forgetting that every objects holds an important value to it. 

The intricate design on the individual clothing’s (shown above) shows the uniqueness of the craftsmanship during the days. Not overly done, the designs are just right. Prints and embroidery all shows a different balance and movement. Its an art piece on its own. The used of colours complements each other making the overall design during the days special for the wearer. The motif and prints of the clothes, an inspiration.

Not only the clothing, the accessories also shows great meaning.

From beading to embroidery on the shoe itself, as compared to today shoe, it is full of details. Hand sewn embroidery is one of a kind. Now trends of bringing the embroidery back into the market is rising. Many people love the embroidery fashion statement, especially me!

Each object tells and important story. Just by looking at the objects it brings back the memories. How people interact, how the women did the sewing and how garment came about, it all started with all this objects. Keeping the history alive, is what all this objects wants to say.

Overall, it is a learning experience, gaining more insights into the past. As compared from now, the nostalgic look and the intricate look of the design brings and inspires current designers. It will indeed help me in my upcoming final project.

This marks the end of the exhibition tour.

Featuring the Surface Group!

Happy Chinese New Year!

WHAT NEXT FOR SURFACE DESIGN?

FUSING PLASTICCCC

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