Wondering with Warren Wee
For Wonders of Nature at the New Art Museum Singapore, designer and curator Warren Wee set out to craft an exhibition that welcomes both children and adults into a world of curiosity and play. Drawing inspiration from childhood encounters with animals, Warren designed a vibrant, photo-worthy space that balances fun with meaning. His vision brings together inflatable sculptures, immersive projections and traditional artworks in a cohesive experience that encourages exploration, celebrates wildlife and gently introduces ideas of conservation.
Warren Wee at Wonders of Nature
What inspired you to create an immersive exhibition specifically for children?
When the New Art Museum reached out to me to curate a show for their massive Singapore space, I immediately thought of doing an exhibition that was both friendly to children and adults. I observed children's first encounters with animals during a visit to the Ueno Zoological Gardens in Japan, and my inspiration was to recreate that fleeting feeling of first encounters. Children of all ages can encounter a dynamic range of artworks, from real-time generated projections of giant ancient fishes to alluring animal sculptures, digital gameplay, art playgrounds and beautiful paintings.
What considerations did you have to ensure the immersive experiences would be both educational and fun for kids?
My first consideration would be the spatial design of the exhibition. Having a professional and academic background in design, I wanted the museum to be transformed visually and be impactful to visitors in this era of social media, a cheerful space where memories would be captured. Next would be the branding, where the 'look and feel' of the exhibition appeals to visitors in a light-hearted and fun way. Finally, the curation and creation of artworks for the exhibition and how all the artworks could come together cohesively to communicate the messaging of conservation, appreciation of wildlife and the Wonders of Nature.
How did you blend traditional art with immersive elements in this hybrid exhibition?
Jackson Tan's monumental inflatable sculptures in the Canyon of Cuddles can be seen as combining active play and the beauty of sculpture. Also, over in the Garden of Senses, traditional paintings are showcased together with an interactive and immersive artwork of the same title, where elements of nature are digitally created.
How did you make sure the exhibition is safe and age-appropriate for young audiences?
The design of the exhibition considered safety for both the children and the artworks by incorporating safety barriers and sufficient buffer space. Precautionary notices were also placed throughout the exhibition to remind visitors of the museum's no-touching policy too. There are various areas in the exhibition where participation is encouraged, and the descriptive text communicates that as well.
Artworks by Go Yayanagi
What impact do you hope this exhibition will have on children?
I hope that in the future, children will remember this exhibition and be impacted positively in various ways. With global warming affecting everyone, climate change is the greatest threat to our existence.
Wonders of Nature was shaped by a desire to recreate the magic of first encounters, those fleeting moments of awe and curiosity. Through playful design, immersive artworks and thoughtful storytelling, Warren Wee invites children and families to explore nature and art together. The exhibition sparks joy and encourages a deeper appreciation for the world around us.