Crossing Cultures at Asian Civilisations Museum: Storytelling Through Time

When Asians Civilisations Museum approached us to participate in their 2025 programme, ‘Storytelling through Time’, we were so excited! The museum is one that houses such rich history and culture from our communities. For this program, we will be exploring the evolution of Asian storytelling showcasing ancient traditions to modern digital forms.

Instead of doing what we always do - setting up a live poetry booth - we decided to turn the tables around and let YOU, yes the visitors do it instead. We presented a typewriting drop-in activity at the museum for this programme, so instead of us writing, the visitors will be the one that types!! The focus is Stories based on objects.

Our poets are stationed there to guide visitors how to use the typewriter and facilitate the session. They also encouraged visitors to answer the prompts and type their reflections on the typewriter. These responses are then collated into a photo wall to be put up for everyone to enjoy like a community story. Visitors can also type a poem to take home!

Some questions we came up for the Photo Wall (Reflection & Sharing)

1. What is one object in the museum that attracted you?

2. If this object could speak, what would it say about its journey across cultures?

3. What emotions or memories does this object evoke in you?

Some prompts that visitors can answer, type out, and take home (Personal Reflection & Keepsake)

1. Describe an object from your own life that you cherish dearly.

2. Write a letter to the past owner of this object—what would you tell them?

3. Write a note to your future self about what this visit meant to you.

Look at how much fun everyone had and how serious they are!! Many older folks also came by and taught the younger ones how to use the typewriter, as they have learnt typing back in the day. We absolutely love the interaction!