Hopscotch: A leap into Singapore’s history

Unlike high-rise architecture with modernised engineering and closely-spaced glass windows, old housing estates tend to look shorter and simpler with wider proximity of the windows. While the windows shows uniformity and order, the concrete building itself reflects stability of life Singaporeans enjoy — in the past and present.

We framed this photo to show the entire building and the sisters were also positioned according to the rule of thirds concept.

From the cultural perspective, the lack of commonality to see hopscotch designs in local parks highlights the diminishing significance of this childhood game, which is similar to the fate of the Dakota’s building in the background.

The sister’s hopping on different grids of the hopscotch is also a figurative form of similarity to how young Singaporeans can ‘hop around different households’ in the past and form strong bonds with their neighbours. This creates an impression of a naturalised and carefree living environment that sets itself apart from the fast-paced society.

Implied movement is present when we see the younger sister hopping from one grid to another, which adds life and energy to this photo.

With the demolishment of Dakota Crescent Estate and other old housing estates, we hope viewers can resonate with the loss of an old heartland culture cultivated by our parents and grandparents over the last few decades.