Punggol’s Past and Present Come Alive in Interactive Art Installation at PAssionArts Festival 2025

Punggol’s story took centre stage during the opening weekend of PAssionArts Festival 2025, as residents, families, and young artists gathered at One Punggol on 13 July 2025 to co-create a giant, interactive storybook that celebrates their neighbourhood’s unique transformation—from rustic kampung beginnings to today’s vibrant waterfront living.

A Living Storybook of Punggol

Titled “The Interactive Story of Punggol Town,” the centrepiece of the event was a multi-sensory installation featuring a colourful 3D map adorned with handcrafted wooden cut-outs. Each element—ranging from kampung chickens and mischievous monkeys to modern-day landmarks like Coney Island and the Lorong Halus Red Bridge—tells a tale of how the neighbourhood has evolved while retaining its charm and community spirit.

The map was lovingly crafted by 40 residents alongside local artist Lim Jia Ren during two pre-festival workshops. Their collective handiwork added heartfelt detail to the visual timeline, blending past and present through art.

Sound, Light, and Memory

More than just a visual display, the storybook installation came to life through ambient sounds and dynamic lighting. With the push of a button, visitors heard the gentle meows of cats, the calls of native birds, and the flow of water—capturing the essence of daily life in Punggol. LED lights traced the town’s iconic waterways, creating a glowing, immersive experience that transformed the installation into a “Neighbourhood Gem.”

Art Made by the Community

The celebration extended beyond the map as residents of all ages became storytellers and creators. They decorated the storybook’s cover pages with leaf motif artworks, adding personal touches that reflected their memories and aspirations for Punggol’s future.