An Exposition

'An Exposition' tells the story of the defunct ‘World(s)’
– 'New World', 'Great World' and 'Gay World' (formerly
'Happy World') – through fragments of material
and memory. The schemas of these bygone-era
amusement parks are used to introduce audiences
to an assemblage of fragmentary elements. In doing
so, Hilmi attempts to establish a speculative dialogue
that traces the systems of production, consumption,
pleasures and entertainment of these ‘World(s)’.

Visitors are welcomed to traverse a space marked out
by components that together appear to resemble a
deconstructed theatrical set. These range from
paintings, wooden sculptures and silent animated
videos to wall and wood mounted vinyl prints.

The installation is immersive whilst reminding the
viewer of the void that exists within the theatricality
of set designs and amusement parks. In a presentation
of decontextualised signs and symbols, 'An Exposition'
engages with the local history and collective memory
of Singapore.