From Tradition to Trend: Crafting Cool, Creative, and Sustainable Futures

Reviving Heritage with a Twist

Think of those old‑school crafts—ketupat weaving, Peranakan beadwork, Chinese‑style lanterns, and colorful rangoli—and picture them that had a fresh, funky makeover. These aren’t just dusty attic relics; they’re living, breathing pieces that caught the nail‑biting attention of the National Museum before July 31, 2022.

Why’re They Special?

The idea sprouted from a creative mash‑up: four dynamic duos, each made of a seasoned local craft master and a low‑key contemporary design studio. They traded hands, ideas, and a bit of elbow grease to turn age‑old techniques into the avant‑garde spectacle you can see in person.

Spotlight on the Show‑case

Peranakan Kebaya reimagined – a jaw‑dropping modern version that keeps tradition intact while adding a splash of swagger.
Chinese Lantern Dining Lamp – a whispered version of the classic lantern turned into a coveted table centerpiece.
Rangoli in Re-Style – bright, bold, and as vibrant as the street corners it was born on.
Spheres of Tradition – modernized to shine in contemporary spaces.

Why New and Old Mesmerize

It’s the blend of authenticity and modern artistry that keeps crowds glued. The original masters keep the soul of the craft alive, while designers splash pop‑culture into every thread and bead. It becomes a living museum exhibit—one that’s both nostalgic and ahead of its time.

Ready to Walk the Line?

If your inner history buff wants to click its assay, you’ve got three weeks left before the exhibit bows out on July 31, 2022. Get your explorer hat on and dive into this cultural mash‑up that’s sure to leave you grinning.

1. Rejuvenation Gown

Meet the Design Dream Team

No matter how fancy the silks and how glossy the designs, the creativity behind this modern twist on the classic Peranakan kebaya comes from the duo of fashion wizard Raymond Wong and the savvy studio Aller Row.

The “Rejuvenation Gown”

This isn’t just a dress—it’s a passport to paradise. Think of a rainbow fireworks display, but in fabric: bright colours, swirling motifs, and a sprinkling of Peranakan flair that would make grandma proud.

What Makes It Stand Out?

Vibrant palette that pops on the catwalk
Traditional patterns reimagined for the 21st century
A blend of heritage and modern chic—perfect for any avant‑garde event

Next Stop: The Star Awards Red Carpet

Honestly, I’m already picturing it hugging the lights, with paparazzi flashing and everyone saying, “Who’s that gorgeous diva?” Let’s just say the Rejuvenation Gown is going to steal the spotlight—and maybe even our breath!

2. Refined Rangoli Metalware

Lights, Laser, Rangoli‑Style!

The magic of this one‑hand wonder comes from the brilliant duo: Vijaya Mohan and Jarrod Lim.

How It Happened

Jarrod’s laser‑cutting skills sliced stainless steel into shiny, perfectly‑shaped leaves.
Vijaya’s intricate rangoli designs were etched onto those leaves, turning plain metal into 3‑D art.
With a few folds and a lot of love, the metal was shaped into a lampshade and a bowl—both feel like a hand‑crafted masterpiece.

Big Shower of Praise

Who knew rangoli could glow? This modern mash‑up of tradition and tech makes you want to light up the room (and your mood) all at once.

3. Harmony Spheres Lamp

Bamboo Lights Up the Room

Picture a lamp that’s not just lighting up your dinner table, but lighting up your imagination.

Minds Behind the Glow

It’s a product of Jimm Wong, the bamboo maestro, and the NextOfKin (NOK) Creatives, the 3‑D design dynamos.

When Bamboo & Design Get Together

Jimm spent hours tinkering with bamboo’s quirks – figuring out exactly how thick, stiff, and flexible it can be. Meanwhile, the NOK crew turned those “rib‑rigid” sticks into a sleek, curvy form that feels more like a modern sculpture that just decided to sleep on your table.

Curved lines that add a touch of elegance
Ribs that jazz up the structure – they’re the support that sings
A multi‑spherical design that looks like a mini‑solar system adorning your dining space

Why It’s a Conversation Starter

Let’s be real: if you drop this on your table, your guests will be geeking out over how it’s built, maybe even questioning whether they need a PhD in architecture before they prepare their meals.

In short, this lamp is the kind of piece that turns heads, sparks curiosity, and gives you a footnote of “How did they even make this?” – a perfect Wi‑Fi for that extra touch of spark in your living room.

4. Raya Furniture

Meet the Trendsetter Who Turned Traditional Javanese Craft Into Modern Chic

Ever seen a piece of furniture that feels like it’s been woven from a story? Thanks to Anita Tompang and designer Andrew Loh, the ancient art of ketupat weaving has finally found its way into the sleek world of contemporary furniture.

What Is Ketupat, Anyway?

Picture a tiny, rice‑filled pyramid wrapped in coconut leaves. That’s katupat, a staple of Indonesian celebrations. Now imagine taking that same intricate weaving technique—only this time, the canvas is thick strips of felt instead of leaves, and the “pyramid’s” heart is a cushy foam of varying densities.

How The Magic Happens

Felt over foam: Threads of felt encircle foam cores, creating a snug kit-like shell.
Modular design: Like puzzle pieces, each section can be flipped, reoriented, or combined to suit your living space.
Function meets fashion: The furniture not only looks yes‑no, it’s ready for the everyday grind—laptop ∙ coffee ∙ random parties.

Why This Should Get Your Head Tapping

Think of the way a ketupat can store rice and grains in a shrinking span of time; now think of how this same structural brilliance makes your sofa surprisingly secure against that dreaded fly‑in‑the‑ketun. The modularity means you can rearrange seats, cushions, and even storage spots, turning a single piece into a versatile set tailored to your needs.

In a Nutshell (when you’re not wrapped up in data)

•Creativity unlocked: Thick felt woven around foam.

•Versatility: Modular pieces, adapt to your vibe.

•Joyful design: From festival dreams to living‑room realities.

Spread The Ketupat Craze!

Be bold. Swap the typical wooden pieces for these textiles and feel the additional texture and warmth that sticks to your fingertips. The next time you’re rearranging your furniture like a spin‑class instructor, remember: it’s all about embedding those timeless threads into your space.

So, why not break out of the ordinary? Let the mesmerizing weave of ketupat” inspire your everyday living.

Meet the creators and participate in a hands-on session

Grab Your Crafty Stickers: July 9 Workshop at the National Museum

Heads up, creative souls! On July 9, 2022, the National Museum is pulling back the curtain on a whirlwind collaboration between four crafty duos and visionary designers. They’re ready to spill the beans on how they turned ideas into art, the drama that came with every knot and stitch, and the lessons they’re living with every day.

What’s on the Table?

Behind‑the‑Scenes Masterclass: Dive into the entire creative journey—from sketch to finished piece.
Hands‑On Experience 1: Learn to weave ketupats yourself. Anita Tompang will walk you through the groove of the loom.
Hands‑On Experience 2: Get your hands dirty with a rangoli workshop led by Vijaya Mohan—because why not add some color to your day?
Q&A Session: Ask anything—whether it’s about sourcing sustainable materials or the emotional highs of finishing a design.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

You’ll walk away with fresh skills, a deeper love for traditional crafts, and maybe a new friendship with fellow art lovers. Plus, you’ll get to see how a little creativity can keep heritage alive—and no, there’s no promotional fluff—just raw, real artistry.

Event Details

Date: July 9, 2022
Venue: National Museum, Singapore
Organizers: National Heritage Board (NHB) & The Wonderwall.sg Team

Curious for more details? Stick around our page for the full scoop—or bring your curiosity and let the museum guide you.

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From Tradition to Trend: Crafting Cool, Creative, and Sustainable Futures