Yesterday,today.
“Things and people change with time, memories don’t.”
Singapore may be young, but from a third world nation to first in a short span, our remarkable achievements made it uncomplying for us not to move on and embrace the change. In a short span of 50 years, the same building, or same people holds different memory for different people. My father's memory of the Singapore River was musky and revolting, while mine was the eye-opening cruise ride that sailed down the (cleaner than before) river.
As we all know, Singapore was under British Colony before gaining independence. The heritage left behind by the British had a great influence on us today. A few landmarks that were passed down from the 19th century were preserved (thankfully!), and served us in a different context today.
The Fullerton Hotel
Retrieved 20 May 2015, from The Fullerton Heritage http://thefullertonheritage.com/our-heritage
Built in the early 20th century, the fullerton hotel was one of the distinguished symbol of Singapore, appearing in numerous postcards and signified the city view of Singapore. Overlooking the bustling Singapore river, a lighthouse once stood at the rooftop of the building, guiding ships approaching the harbour to safety.
Standing through the century, this building witnessed the momentous growth of Singapore, serving as many entities such as the General Post Office, the Exchange Building... and today, the Fullerton Hotel.
National Gallery Singapore
Retrieved 20 May 2015, from One Degree North Explorer http://sgurbex.blogspot.sg/2011/05/national-art-gallery-openhouse.html
Spectators outside City Hall, witnessing the surrender of Japanese after World War 2
Retrieved 20 May 2015, from One Degree North Explorer http://sgurbex.blogspot.sg/2011/05/national-art-gallery-openhouse.htm
Built between 1937 and 1939, the old Supreme Court- former courthouse of the Supreme Court of Singapore, stands majestically overlooking the Padang. It's grand architecture and the feature of the dome is no stranger to the Singapore skyline as well.
Many would remember the steps leading up to the City Hall as the designated location for graduation shots and bridal portrait before the building underwent an overhaul. Thankfully, the building is preserved and now becomes the National Gallery Singapore, which will open by the end of 2015.
The Arts House at the old parliament house
Image Source: National Archives of Singapore. Retrieved 20 May 2015, from Ghetto Singapore http://www.ghettosingapore.com/the-houses-before-arts-house/
This building has came a long way before becoming the Arts House today. Built in 1827, it witnessed two centuries of growth in our little island. The building has underwent many alterations and additions, and people's memories of it changes over generations. It was once used as a court house, which later housed the Supreme Court, which later became the Assembly House in 1950s, where Singapore's first chief minister, David Marshall's office stood.
Yang di-Pertuan Negara Yusof Ishak takes the salute from Singapore Infantry Regiment guard of honour during the opening of the First Singapore Parliament on 8 December 1965.
Image Source: Ministry of Information and the Arts. Retrieved 20 May 2015, from Ghetto Singapore http://www.ghettosingapore.com/the-houses-before-arts-house/
After Singapore gained independence in 1965, the building became the Parliament House of Singapore. In 2004, the Parliament house went through another overhaul and became the Arts House we know of today.
Jophia and Larry were both dressed in classic black and white for this shoot to symbolize the abiding charm of these old buildings, how the classic colours were injected with a new lease of life, a new purpose, paired with a contemporary design.
Jophia is in a white organza slit gown with asymmetric black lace and applique details, synched with a black satin sash.
arry is in a black men's suit (Larry's own) styled with a classic white bow tie.
Photography: NiqSiow
Hair and make up: Joey Chan
Special thanks: Jophia & Larry