When Art and Fashion Meet

Mention museums and the imagery that invariably comes to mind are that of imposing spaces filled with regal artwork from paintings to sculptures or ceramics. And that’s simply because an academic bias of certain material mediums exists, says Jackie Yoong, curator at Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM). But the 35-year-old is hoping to help change that perspective. In early 2020, ACM will be opening two permanent galleries: one on fashion and textiles, helmed by Jackie; and the other on jewellery, by Naomi Wang, 30.

Occupying the third floor of ACM, both galleries will explore Asian histories, cultures and identities. The fashion and textiles wing will kick off with an exhibition on Chinese dress from the late Qing dynasty