Online film series that makes time capsules out of the colors, vibes and people of iconic spaces in Singapore.

On this hectic little island called Singapore, Wallflowers, an online film series is dedicated to uncovering precious breathing space in the little things. Started in 2021 by local artists, this multi-disciplinary project documents oft-overlooked sights and sounds to help Singaporeans rediscover the city’s everyday beauty.

Each film lets us linger in a certain time and space on the island – mornings at Tiong Bahru, sleepy afternoons at Toa Payoh, or nightfall in Geylang – and immerses us in a playful remix of its true colors, sounds and people.

Sometimes the creators would keep the lens still, and let us experience the scene like we’re there. One film shows a lone heron idling in the swamps of Sungei Buloh, unaware of a crocodile close by. As they hold the shot, it’s hard not to hold your breath. Sometimes the film walks a tightrope like an explorer with infinite interest and limited time, going with the flow of the place while still taking care to capture the elements that make it special.

One thing’s for sure: the creators aren’t shy about letting their personality shine through. On top of idiosyncratic cuts and soundtracks that express the vibes unique to each spot, they literally inject color into the everyday by featuring spray-painted local staples like the tingkat (food container) and the kopi (coffee) cup, all wonderful ways to refresh the mundane with tinges of new.

In a fast-developing city where spaces come and go, this series will become an invaluable time capsule for locals to revisit and reminisce over. For those who’ve never been to Singapore, I’m happy to say: a wonderful journey awaits you.

See more at instagram.com/wallflowerssg.

Review by Judy Au, Copywriter, BBH Singapore.