Buzz
When it comes to wax museums, one might immediately think of statues of politicians or famous celebrities. However, Images of Singapore offers a completely different experience.
The wax museum in Singapore also showcases life-sized figures, but they're not replicas of President Obama or Queen Elizabeth, the iconic band The Beatles, or pop princess Britney Spears.
You won't find 'copies' of actress Angelina Jolie or action star Jackie Chan, handsome footballer David Beckham, or Ronaldo here.
At Images of Singapore, you'll marvel at wax figures crafted by Singaporeans to honor their ancestors.
In other words, Images of Singapore is a historical wax museum. However, unlike typical museums, it doesn't weigh visitors down with heavy historical or political atmospheres, nor does it feature dull, monotonous speeches that make young people yawn.
Enjoy an Exciting Journey Through Singapore's History
First, visitors are led into a room with wooden chairs, crates, sails... The arrangement of the room gives you a sense of intimacy and warmth. You'll feel like stepping onto an old ship to begin a journey through time.
The highlight of this room is the 4 'animated' portraits. Just when you're wondering 'who are these 4 men,' you'll be startled as they suddenly come to life. Turns out, they represent the four main ethnic groups in Singapore: Chinese, Malay, British, Indian.
They take on the role of storytellers, recounting Singapore's history, its booming maritime industry, and sharing their aspirations for the new land. It's truly an intriguing yet refreshing introduction to the country's history.
Leaving the screening room, you'll enter a rustic tunnel echoing with the calls of wild birds. I call this the history-seeking tunnel.
This tunnel leads you to the main section of Images of Singapore. Here, you'll be amazed by their wax sculpting technology.
Eerily Lifelike Statues at Singapore
As a multicultural island nation, Singaporeans are all aware that they are living together in one country, so they always blend, share, complement each other, and together develop a unique Singaporean culture and a prosperous Singaporean economy.
All of this is demonstrated at the exhibition area of Images of Singapore.
The wax figures are placed in vivid scenes, depicting the life and activities of the ethnic groups in this country from ancient times to the present.
From a solemn wedding ceremony, to a lively Mid-Autumn Festival night, a cozy meal, a joyful Lunar New Year day, a sorrowful funeral, an intense game of chess, to a sacred temple... Every step is a discovery of the history, customs, traditions, and rituals of the ethnic groups living in Singapore. It's truly surprising and fascinating; I've never been to a historical museum that is both humane and realistic like this one.
What's noteworthy is that the creators of Images of Singapore do not see this place as a source of profit; they use most of the proceeds to regularly renovate, honor, and change the scenes to avoid boredom for tourists.
Leaving Images of Singapore, I felt like I had grasped a bit of this country's history even though I hadn't made any effort to learn. I also deeply admire the sophistication and talent of the people of the Lion City.
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Source: Travel Handbook Mytour – By: iHay
MytourJuly 27, 2013
