I'm a science centre professional who occasionally finds himself teaching in the formal classroom. I've been lucky to have had opportunities to visit numerous science centres and museums the world over, and am happy to share what I've experienced through my perspective.
For my other posts (on my travels, leisure, and food), visit my other site at www.danjumbuck.com.
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Catching Elephant is a theme by Andy Taylor
It’s hard not to be awed by the ArtScience Museum, a gem of architecture mirrored in a serene moat at Marina Bay, Singapore. Though the building inspires and the name evocative, I was never truly tempted to visit. First of all, the tickets are not exactly cheap (compounded by the disadvantaged exchange rate from MYR) and at a glance, the museum did not look sizable. I was wary of spending so much money for a short walk through fluff - galleries that I am sure is beautiful but is just object-driven.
Boy… was I wrong.
Let’s first get physical. The building is deceptively modest and although the footprint of the upper levels are not exactly expansive (though definitely roomy), there is a huge basement level below which at the time of my visit housed the Titanic exhibition. With something like 50,000 square feet, it’s a good 2 hour visit (or more if you really take your time).
More importantly though, there is evidence of thoughtful curation that results in exhibitions that are contemporary, immersive, and dare I say it… world-class.The permanent installations aren’t much but they are nicely done. And although the travelling exhibitions are typically blockbusters, the local treatment adds finesse to a sound product.
When I visited, the Cartier and Titanic exhibitions were on-going. I had initially zero interest looking at timepieces but I must say, I’ve gained a new found respect for the art of timekeeping. The tradition and history of Cartier told through remarkable time pieces including mystery clocks, jewel-crusted marvels, and a high-tech wonder was quite an experience. The star though is the amazing art installation by artist Tokujin Yoshioka in which the Cartier ID One concept watch is on display. It is really unfortunate that photos are not allowed but the best I can describe the installation is that it’s heavenly. I am in such envy and marvel of the artist.
Then there’s the expansive Titanic exhibition which starts with an actual ticket replica with a real passenger’s name. I had third-class Mr. Edward Ryan who according to records survived the sinking by impersonating as a woman. Why? Because well, women and children first unless of course you’re a first class noble born. And I remembered and learned all that from just the entry ticket.
The exhibition is a must-see experience though be warned, you may be inclined to start humming Celine Dion’s ‘My Heart Will Go On’ while people of all ages shout ‘I’m the king of the world!’. It’s that immersive… you can almost believe that you’re on board a passage to cold sinking death. From freezing icebergs, recreated staterooms, multi-sensory experiences, and a chilling yet artistic journey to the depths of the sea, Titanic at the ArtScience is simply memorable.
In my line of work (I’m a science centre professional), I’ve been fortunate to have travelled to numerous science centres and museums the world over. Some have impressed, some have wow’ed, most are fairly unsurprising, but very few have left me moved and changed. Perhaps it was the unique combo of having the right exhibitions and a great docent (Sarah) as a guide but I tip my hat and am making plans to visit again this Saturday.
Singapore (and ArtScience), here I come again to be enthralled. Please don’t disappoint.
