Exhibition Highlight: Timeless Flows: The Legacy and Evolution of the Singapore River

Timeless Flows presents nine thought-provoking artworks inspired by The Singapore River: A Social History, 1819–2002 by Associate Professor Stephen Dobbs. The exhibition traces the journey of the Singapore River—from its early colonial days to its transformation into the modern cityscape we know today.

The original book explores the river’s importance as a key trade route during the British colonial era, focusing on the hard work of the lightermen—workers who transported goods between ships and shore. Over time, as Singapore developed into a global port, the river changed too, becoming cleaner and surrounded by modern buildings. But with progress came the fading of old industries like lighterage.

Inspired by this history, Dr. Kay Kok reimagines the story through the eyes of two fictional characters, Ah Huat and Wei Wei. Their journey, spanning from the 1940s to today, brings to life the changing riverfront—its people, its struggles, and its spirit.

Through her visual storytelling, Timeless Flows becomes more than just a tribute to the past. It invites us to reflect, reconnect, and imagine the future of the river that helped shape Singapore’s identity.

Note: The characters Ah Huat and Wei Wei are fictional and not based on real individuals.

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