NEW SHOWCASE AND PUBLIC PROGRAMMES BRING SINGAPORE’S UNDERWATER HERITAGE TO LIFE
ArCH Square has unveiled its first-ever gallery rotation, SHIPPED!: Memories from the Sea, alongside a series of public programmes this May, in conjunction with Singapore HeritageFest (SHF) 2026.
Image Credit to HeritageSG
The maritime-themed showcase anchors ArCH Square’s May line-up, presenting a collection of underwater artefacts recovered from Singapore waters—many of which are being displayed publicly for the first time. The exhibition explores Southeast Asia’s seafaring past through archaeological evidence, highlighting trade networks, craftsmanship and cultural exchange across the region.
Drawing on artefacts linked to historical maritime activity, including materials associated with the Empress of Asia ocean liner and ceramics from renowned kiln centres such as Jingdezhen, the showcase traces the lifecycle of these objects—from production and trade to submergence and recovery. Items on display include porcelain fragments featuring mythical makara motifs, dragon jars used for transporting goods, and even a recovered ship toilet valve, offering insight into both symbolic and functional aspects of maritime life.
Complementing the exhibition, ArCH Square will host a range of public programmes designed to broaden engagement with archaeology. These include Coffee Cultures: Maritime Routes and Everyday Rituals, a sensory workshop that explores how coffee traditions spread through maritime trade and evolved across port cities in Southeast Asia.
Image Credits to Kaffeign
In addition, Framing the Sea will offer an accessible public talk led by maritime archaeologist Michael Flecker, examining shipwreck research and underwater heritage in Southeast Asia, while providing insights into how submerged sites are studied and interpreted today.
Michael Flecker
Image Credit to HeritageSG
A key milestone for the institution is the launch of Archaeology 101!, a four-week introductory course beginning on 21 May 2026 in Singapore. The programme combines foundational theory with hands-on post-excavation training, offering participants practical experience in artefact identification and processing, while opening pathways for volunteer involvement in archaeological work.
Image Credits to HeritageSG
According to Zinnurain Nasir, Curator at HeritageSG, the expanded offerings reflect ArCH Square’s role as an educational platform where the public can engage meaningfully with both tangible and intangible heritage. He noted that the programmes aim to demonstrate how archaeology not only uncovers the past but also informs contemporary understanding of society.
With its combination of exhibition, workshops and expert-led discussions, ArCH Square’s May programme reinforces its mission to make archaeology accessible, while encouraging deeper appreciation of Singapore’s maritime legacy.
