From the Heart: Celebrating Home and Food

I am delighted to share with you the installation design process behind the current edition of "This Is What We Eat At Home," on display at the National Museum in Singapore from May to June 2023 as part of the Children's Season.

This participatory project by 3Pumpkins and Tak Takut Kids Club invites you to explore the narratives of home and food rooted in diverse households in the neighborhood of Boon Lay. I am grateful to be part of this journey, thanks to the trust and collaboration of Lin Shiyun and the 3Pumpkins team, whose support has been invaluable. It is an honor to have contributed to this project.

Celebrating Authentic Narratives

This exhibit stands out for its unwavering commitment to authenticity. Every photograph, piece of writing, and portrait drawing displayed was created by children of Tak Takut Kids Club. Tak Takut means don't be afraid.

Rather than relying on conventional spatial designs targeted for children, which often use simplistic graphics and colors, we drew inspiration from the distinct spatial qualities found in their actual homes. This approach influenced our material choices, the intimate scale of the exhibit, and the deliberate framing of the photographs. By highlighting the showcased narratives, we crafted an immersive experience deeply rooted in the authenticity of the shared stories.

Navigating Constraints with Resourcefulness

Design is a continuous iterative process that often thrives in the face of constraints.

As an installation designer, I faced the common challenge of having limited knowledge of costs. This resulted in an initial design that proved to be financially impractical. You catch a glimpse of this iteration - (A) - as a home-sized enclosure on the exhibition map.

However, instead of becoming disheartened, we saw this as an opportunity to be more resourceful and economical while maintaining the desired exhibit experience. The narrowest of conditions can be fertile ground for inspiration and innovation.

Inspiring Genuine Connections

At the heart of our exhibit was a genuine desire to engage meaningfully with our visitors. We provided paper and pens, inviting guests to express their thoughts and share their feedback. Witnessing the joy and enthusiasm as children immersed themselves in drawing, and hearing the heartfelt appreciation for the photographs and stories, was truly fulfilling for our team. Guests expressed sincere admiration for the stunning visuals, the opportunity to delve into the narratives, and the emotions of inspiration and nostalgia evoked. The exhibit became a space for reflection, inspiration, and a shared sense of nostalgia, leaving a lasting impact on all who experienced it.

Making a Meaningful Impact

The impact of the exhibit extended beyond positive feedback. One story captured in the local newspaper Zaobao that deeply touched me was that of Rowshaun Subash and his family.

Through "This Is What We Eat At Home," Rowshaun discovered aspects of his identity and sparked open conversations within his family. These powerful moments exemplified the profound impact this participatory project had on individuals and communities.

Sharing Authentic Stories

"This Is What We Eat At Home" is more than just an exhibition. It is a celebration of authenticity, collaboration, and the beauty of our shared human experiences. The modular and adaptable nature of the installation allows us to seek new venues and extend the reach of these inspiring stories. Whether it's a room or a long wall, we can configure the exhibit to seamlessly fit various environments. If you know of a potential venue or would like to support this endeavor, let's come together and continue this journey of celebrating the beauty of home and the power of shared experiences.