ABOUT
Singapore is home to many races and religions. As such, we mourn, bury and honour the deceased in very different ways from each other. The practises surrounding death are an important and intangible part of our cultural heritage.
In 1978, 3.7% of Singapore's land space was occupied as cemeteries. Today, many were exhumed and used for development purposes which includes Bishan and Tiong Bahru. Funeral rituals, burial grounds, post-funeral practises memorialise the deceased and help loved ones reminisce of the life that they had shared with them. “MEMORIAM” is a presentation of photographs, artefacts and stories from Singapore. Though we live in a multi-religious society, it is rare that we partake in the practices of a religion that is not ours. This exhibition invites you to discover more about the cultural heritage of three religions that are common in Singapore — Hindusim, Islam and Taoism. Journey from past to present times and observe how each religion has adapted over time to cater to land-scarce Singapore.
As young curators, we reflect on issues that are of importance to us. Though seemingly dark and grim, our thoughts led us to funerals. Youths know little about the cultural practices that concern the dead. (And for a good reason of course — no one should be experiencing funerals often.)
In remembering, appreciating and inheriting the cultural practises that honour the deceased of our community — will be able to offer continuity and hope for the living.
Meet The Team
Clare joseph
Curator
As a Year 3 Student in the Diploma of Arts Business Management, I curated this exhibition on Singapore’s cultural heritage alongside friends who share the same vision as me. I feel lucky and thankful to have had a quality education and to have pursued an Arts Management Diploma. The Arts are important to me and there will always be a place for it in Singapore’s society. As Will Durant said, “Every Science begins at Philosophy and ends at Art.” I yearn to contribute more to our local arts industry and to preserve Singapore’s diverse heritage.
charlene lim
Curator
A final year student pursuing a Diploma in Arts Business Management, I am an adventurous and creative individual who is always ready for new experiences. I firmly believe that "the true principle is not to portray but to evoke." As an artist myself, I believe there is no greater achievement than knowing that your work has made an impact on someone else. I look forward to future projects and challenges that push me to greater heights.
eunice yeow
Curator
I am someone that values building connections with people through meaningful topics that start conversations and push boundaries at the same time which is something the arts has potential for. Having been exposed to the arts since a young age, I believe in incorporating it into our daily lives to make it more living more fulfilling. A little bit more about myself... I have an outgoing personality that allows me to start conversations easily wherever I go. I am also someone that enjoys challenges that are out of my comfort zone and is able to pique my interest intellectually. With that being said, I am not one to shy away from projects that are exciting and idealistic.
ashley loh
Curator
I am currently pursuing a Diploma in Art Business Management in Ngee Ann Polytechnic. I love drawing and crafting. With my interest in making visual art, I want to learn more about the business side of art. I aspire to be part of Singapore’s art scene to present the best art program this is accessible and easily understood by non-arts audiences.
megan low
Curator
I am a final year student in the Diploma of Arts Business Management, who aspires to be part of the creative industry. Apart from curating this exhibition with the team, I own an online baking business selling baked goods, and am a people-oriented & adventurous individual who enjoys picking up new hobbies from time to time and of course, learning new things!