Manila Galleon
Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas explores the centuries-long Pacific trade between Manila and Mexico, revealing a rich legacy of cultural and artistic exchange.
Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas - This special exhibition at the Asian Civilization Museum narrates the centuries-long maritime trading route across the Pacific, illustrating how the exchange of people, products, and ideas between Manila and Mexico City's bustling port cities cultivated a unique and interconnected cultural and artistic legacy.
Each section of the exhibition draws inspiration from the fleet's narrative. The initial space reflects the colours, textures, and forms found in Mexican and Filipino architecture. Subsequent chambers dissect the artefacts, extracting their unique aspects into geometric motifs and surfaces, which are then juxtaposed around and within the display. Our aim is to evoke emotions such as a sense of adventure, desire, and curiosity, akin to those experienced by the individuals and goods aboard the galleon.
Each section of the exhibition draws inspiration from the fleet's narrative. The initial space reflects the colours, textures, and forms found in Mexican and Filipino architecture. Subsequent chambers dissect the artefacts, extracting their unique aspects into geometric motifs and surfaces, which are then juxtaposed around and within the display. Our aim is to evoke emotions such as a sense of adventure, desire, and curiosity, akin to those experienced by the individuals and goods aboard the galleon.
At Shaw Foyer, public furniture is introduced to accommodate various group activities offered by the museum. Complementing the "Tree of Life" paper installation by a local Mexican artisan, the mini-stage seating and bookshelf mimic waves and hills in form. Positioned against the gallery wall, they embrace the space, forming an immersive landscape alongside the towering tree sculpture. This landscape marks the beginning of the exhibition, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
LOCATION
SINGAPORE
YEAR
COMPLETION 2023
DISCIPLINE
EXHIBITION
TYPOLOGY
MUSEUM/GALLERY
SIZE (SQM)
700 SQM
TEAM
WILLIE KOH, PAMELA LEE, PNG JUN KIAT, PLUEM PONGPISAL, YOLANDE LEONG
COLLABORATORS
PHOTOGRAPHER: ONG CHAN HAO
