It's quite subtle, and you almost don't notice it's there. I'm talking about the sound background that adds to your total museum experience. It's employed quite extensively by the National Museum of Singapore. Take for example, the Fashion Living Gallery. As you lose yourself in the dark cavenous room, admiring the fashion statements through the years, there is a subtle, warm, fuzzy whisper in the background. Listen carefully, and you detect the whirring of a sewing machine. Come to think of it, I realise why it's a warm fuzzy feeling. It's so familiar, and yet so distant. It now dawns on me that it's a subconscious association of my mother tapping away at her trusty Singer sewing machine (still present in her bedroom today). Those were the days when she had to lug home bundles of fabric cuttings and sew them into pyjamas, to supplement the family income. It brings back unpleasant memories of the days when the family, once wealthy, came to bad times, and mum had to eke out a living sewing pyjamas. A simple rattle of a sewing machine, but it evokes so much feelings in me. The strength of mum's character, her pessimism, and yet her commitment to do whatever it takes to get going. Yes, museum is about emotional engagement. But the engagement happens only when it means something to you. Is it no wonder that museums appeal only to older people like me?
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