Museums

I had the oppoortunity to visit the Art Museum and the National Museum on Monday and Tuesday respectively. The trips were made during lunch time as I was attending an external course in the vicinity.

The first visit (to SAM www.nhb.gov.sg/SAM) - was free, and it was by chance as I was just roaming along Bras Basah Road and decided to go in and was most pleased to be told that lunch time admission is FOC. Apparently there was some promotion to attract pple to appreciate the arts. Though I was not very well versed in this area, I kind of like the tranquility of the galleries. Spacious hall with dimmed lightings and bright paintings. There was no noise except for the few foot steps (it was rather empty). The short 20 minutes or so was a refreshing experience. Cun understand why my fellow colleagues were not very excited that they could capitalise on such offer to visit it themselves tomorrow. The response was that "I am not very artisitic". So am I, but that does not stop one from appreciating some nice paintings.


On the following day, I made a point to have a quick lunch so that I could have more time at the National Museum www.nationalmuseum.sg. I had expectations after reading the rave review on its recent opening after a long refurbishment. I was not disappointed. The entrance fee of $10 was worth its monies. The internal achitecture was impressive, and the "new" galleries offer much more information. There was this "companion" which was actually a headset coupled with a player where one just needs to key in the numbers for voiced commentaries. I would have spent twice the time if not for needing to return to the classroom at 2pm.

Because of its opening festival, there were some interactive corners for children to participate. From the pics, you could tell that they really enjoyed themselves.

The museum shop has some nice souveniers, and top of my list would be those humble fridge magnets which show the stamps of the 70s and 80s.

If you have not been there since school days, I would strongly encourage that you pop by for a visit.