“Stories of Serangoon,” a life-sized open-book installation crafted by residents to mark SG60 at this year’s Serangoon PAssionArts Festival. The vibrant display blends history, community pride, and everyday icons, telling the story of Serangoon through the eyes of those who call it home. Photo credit: People’s Association – PAssionArts.

A life-sized book at Serangoon PAssionArts Festival 2025 celebrates the neighbourhood’s heritage and pet-friendly spirit through community art.

If a neighbourhood could tell its story, Serangoon just did. Residents unveiled the Stories of Serangoon — a giant pop-up book installation — as part of the Serangoon PAssionArts Festival 2025, commemorating Singapore’s 60th year of independence.

Madam Norah Yeo (77 years old) and Mr Ronnie Chia (73 years old), proudly showing sections of the “Stories of Serangoon” that they painted. Each detail in the giant pop-up book, from familiar shophouses to colourful blooms made from painted plastic bottles, carries a personal story. Photo credit: People’s Association – PAssionArts.

This year’s festival theme, Neighbourhood Gems, is brought to life through the vivid pages of the open-book artwork, which features familiar local landmarks like the clocktower, Serangoon Community Club, and Stadium. Adding a personal touch is a striking cat figure, symbolising Serangoon’s lively, pet-friendly culture, known for its many pet shops and veterinary clinics.

Ms Amruthaa Kalaiselvan, Mr Dzul and their team from ArtzJohan pose with residents who co-created “Stories of Serangoon” for the PAssionArts Festival 2025. The giant open-book installation features hand-crafted wooden landmarks and upcycled plastic blooms, showcasing the “Our Neighbourhood Gems” that define their community. Photo credit: People’s Association – PAssionArts.

The colourful installation was crafted through a pre-festival workshop led by local artist Ms Amruthaa Kalaiselvan, Art Director at Artz Johan. Working alongside Ms Amruthaa — herself a Serangoon North resident — around 20 to 30 residents helped paint, design, and build elements of the piece. Flowers made from painted plastic bottles frame the artwork, representing community effort and renewal.

 Serangoon residents view the “Stories of Serangoon” installation. The pop-up map inspired families to explore the neighbourhood’s landmarks together. Photo credit: People’s Association – PAssionArts.

Beyond the visual display, Stories of Serangoon is complemented by personal tales shared by residents and captured on a dedicated website (Stories of Serangoon), creating a living archive of local memories and pride. The project stands as a testament to Serangoon’s strong sense of community and creativity, as neighbours come together to celebrate what makes their home special.

Source: PAssionArts Festival 2025