The red brick facade of the old National Library at Stamford Road was a distinctive icon among Singaporeans before it was torn down. Cozy and comfortable, it brought back memories of school-going days and was a favourite among photo enthusiasts. Therefore, when people queued up to contributed their old, treasured pictures during the Heritage Roadshow on 10 November 2007 at the much more modern-looking 16-storey library, I wandered around the booths curiously, wondering if any of them brought along pictures of the old library. There were none. Instead many of the donors donated photographs which were much older, some of them way before I was born!
Organised by NLB, The Heritage Road Show II entails more that reminiscing the “Lost Memories”. There were fun and games, story telling, hand tattooing and other activities happening at a bazaar at NL level one.
After spending some time at the booths, I headed for level 7, 8, 9 and 10 to view some other exhibitions which was related to Singapore’s literary heritage. I was not disappointed. On display at Level 7 was an exhibition of Publications of the Singapore Chinese Clans. Here I learned about the formation of Chinese clan associations years ago in Singapore according to different dialect groups. I was surprised to see a marriage certificate archive of the “Khek” clan, which is my dialect group. Wonder if my grandparents names are inside…
The Nanyang Pioneer Artists Exhibition on Level 8 was most interesting for me. During my course of work, I often encounter names I’ve never heard of, famous artists such as Liu Kang, Chen Wen Hsi and Georgette Chen. Now I know who they are! The exhibition here highlights the life and times of the six pioneers of the Nanyang art movement, including the founder of Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) – Lim Hak Tai.
Wondered how Chinese publications in Singapore looked like 50 years ago? NL Level 9 is the place for you to go! The colourful exhibition makes old periodicals come “alive”. Chinese magazines from way back in 1940s till 1980s are on display.
If you had donated something during the Heritage Road Show in 2006, you will be glad to know that selected items are on display at the Donors’ Gallery at level 10. Here, you will find books, manuscripts, photographs, maps and old programme booklets, all donated by kind-hearted souls last year.
The Heritage Road Show II Digital Contest is over but the exhibitions are still on-going. Visit www.nlb.gov.sg/heritageshowcase/exhibitions.html to find out more.
Heritage Roadshow II is part of Explore Singapore! , happening from 10 November 2007 to 31 December 2007. For more information on Explore Singapore!, visit www.museums.com.sg/explore or call 62214463.
Capture Explore Singapore! moments and stand a chance to win a Nikon D40 Kit! Click here for more details.
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