Lady M Created A Light-Up Lantern For Its Mooncakes, Because Boxes Are So Mainstream

As August draws to a close, it means two things – Halloween is coming, but before that, Mid-Autumn Festival.

That means breaking out the paper lanterns, sparklers, and of course, mooncakes.

This year, so many brands are putting out their own spin on the traditional delicacy. Some are sticking to tradition with classic mooncakes with lotus paste, white lotus paste or red bean paste; others are breaking tradition with alcoholic mooncakes, cheesecake mooncakes, ice cream mooncakes, and more.

[caption id="attachment_29409" align="aligncenter" width="1034"] Image Credit: Lady M[/caption]

With brands from the usual hotels to Mr Bean hawking their own versions of the confection, it takes something truly special to pierce through the competition – and we think Lady M‘s version takes the (moon)cake!

Snowskin Mooncakes In A Grand Lantern

This Mid-Autumn Festival, Lady M will be selling sets of 4 snowskin mooncakes, which will be available in 2 flavours: Cranberry Cheese White Chocolate Truffle and Peanut Butter Chocolate Truffle.

[caption id="attachment_29410" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Snowskin Mooncake – Cranberry Cheese (Image Credit: Lady M)[/caption]

While these flavours sound completely non-traditional, don’t worry, the people at Lady M haven’t completely thrown tradition out the window.

The mooncakes, which come in pink and white respectively, are filled with white lotus paste, with a luxurious chocolate truffle core that’s filled with either cranberry cream cheese or smooth creamy peanut butter.

[caption id="attachment_29411" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Snowskin Mooncake – Peanut Butter (Image Credit: Lady M)[/caption]

Each mooncake bears Lady M’s trademark “M”, embossed in place of the usual Mandarin characters or flowers.

While the mooncakes are special in and of themselves, their packaging is what’s won our hearts – these mooncakes are housed in a gorgeous lantern!

Limited Edition Lanterns

At first glance, you’ll see a pretty pink lantern, but only upon closer inspection will you see the intricacies of its design.

Battery-lit from the inside, you’ll notice the sides of the lantern are actually three dimensional windows. You’ll even spot tiny silhouettes of people having tea! The whole lantern resembles an ornate building, with pretty windows, columns, and Lady M’s “M” weaved seamlessly into its design.

[caption id="attachment_29412" align="aligncenter" width="861"] Image Credit: Lady M[/caption]

Coming with a dainty, metallic chain attached for carrying around, lift the top piece and you’ll find the four mooncakes stacked one on top of the other!

Super pretty, this is far from your typical mooncake box or tin.

“M” For Mooncake

The Grand Lantern Mooncakes will only be available till 1 October 2017, and will be available in limited quantities, so make an order quickly!

Priced at $109.50 per box (set of 4 mooncakes), make an order by 3 September and you can also enjoy an early-bird price of $99.50.

Thinking of sending mooncakes to friends or family, but have no idea which mooncakes to buy? With such pretty packaging, this is definitely a winner. Heck, you might want to just get these for yourself – the lantern is definitely a unique piece you’ll want to keep around the house.

Pre-order Lady M’s Grand Lantern Mooncakes Marina Bay Sands Is Throwing A Festival That Lets You Have Fun And Do Good At The Same Time

This Cafe Created A Diner-Themed Dessert Menu, And Our Eyes Are Confused

If you’ve ever wished you could switch out all the food on your dinner plate for something sweeter (basically, dessert for dinner), there’s a cafe in Singapore where you can do just that; that is, seem like you’re having a sensible meal, but in fact be enjoying dessert.

Nestled in Lorong Kilat, this place serves up typical diner-style food – except, the foods here aren’t what they seem.

[caption id="attachment_29341" align="aligncenter" width="890"] Image Credit: Cake Avenue[/caption]

A spot called “Cake Avenue“, its name should be the first clue that you’re not in for a regular meal of burger and fries.

Look closer and you’ll find burger buns that are actually made of cake, soup that’s made of jelly, salsa that’s made of strawberry compote… You have to see it to believe it.

A Diner-themed Dessert Menu

Cake Avenue has released a new diner-themed dessert menu, and if you’re a sweet tooth, you’ll love all 6 new menu offerings they’re plating up.

First up is the classic burger and fries combo – or rather, its dessert twin.

[caption id="attachment_29331" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: Cake Avenue[/caption]

Instead of burger buns sandwiching a beef patty, what you’re seeing here is a dark chocolate ice cream “patty” sandwiched by vanilla butter cake “burger buns”. The vibrantly coloured “mustard” is passionfruit purée, and raspberry purée serves as the “ketchup”.

For sides, you get “fries”, which comprise more vanilla cake.

[caption id="attachment_29332" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: Cake Avenue[/caption]

Dessert nachos – bad idea or totally genius? Decide for yourself!

This dish of nachos contains flatbread nachos topped with strawberry compote “salsa”, chocolate mousse “refried beans”, julienned peach “cheese” and pistachio ice cream “guacamole”.

[caption id="attachment_29333" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: Cake Avenue[/caption]

Now, this is a dish we find quite intriguing.

A simple bowl of Alphabet Soup, scoop into it and you’ll find that beneath the rose jelly “tomato broth” is a lychee mousse with lychee and raspberry. If you’re wondering if the “alphabets” are actually alphabet pasta, think again – the people at Cake Avenue went all out, crafting the alphabets out of sweet milk agar.

More Unicorn Food

If there’s one foodie trend that seems to be powering on, it has to be unicorn food.

[caption id="attachment_29336" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: Cake Avenue[/caption]

Pretty to look at and super Instagrammable, Cake Avenue has created a range of unicorn-themed shakes that come complete with ears and a horn!

In pastel hues of yellow, pink, and green, take your pick from mango, strawberry and matcha flavours respectively!

Raring to try these inventive creations? So are we! Unfortunately, these new desserts will only be available from 1 September onwards, so we’ll all have to wait for just a bit before we can get our hands on these adorable treats.

Cake Avenue 
Address: 33 Lorong Kilat, #01-01/02 Kilat Centre, 598132
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 8.30pm; Closed on Mon
Contact no.: 6877 9008
Website

Also read 8 Corny Pick Up Lines To Use On That Cutie You Spot On Your Next Fun Run

Rumor Has It The Nasi Lemak Burger Is Coming Back, And We’re Keeping Our Fingers Crossed

Word on the street is that McDonald’s will be bringing back its Nasi Lemak Burger!

A burger that received plenty of hype from the moment it was announced – and that shut down disbelievers with its tasty mixture of flavours once released – the burger sold out a short 2 weeks after it hit McDonald’s outlets across the island.

[caption id="attachment_29275" align="aligncenter" width="989"] Nasi Lemak Burger[/caption]

Not everyone managed to get a taste of the locally inspired burger, and despite queuing for hours to try the burger, many had to leave empty-handed.

It’s not just those who didn’t get to try it that were left devastated; many of us who did manage to get our hands on the burger were saddened when news hit that McDonald’s had run out of them.

[caption id="attachment_29277" align="aligncenter" width="650"] Image Credit: Superadrianme[/caption]

Sure, there are alternatives to the Nasi Lemak Burger, with eateries like Marie Antoinette, The Beast and Makansutra Gluttons Bay selling their own versions – some even with actual nasi – but they just aren’t quite the same. 

Word is that we can expect the reappearance of the Nasi Lemak Burger at the end of August. There is no official confirmation as yet, but we’ll be sure to let you know once we receive any information on these burgers!

Also read These Epic Aerial Photos Of S’pore Will Show You How Beautiful Our Country Really Is

(Header Image Source: Coconuts)

This Fry-It-Yourself Hum Chim Peng Stall Is Your Grown-up Masak Masak Dream Come True

Recently, a certain hum chim peng (deep fried dough fritters) stall has caught the attention of netizens in Singapore.

Located at Maxwell Food Centre, what’s unique about this humble fried dough fritter stall is that you get to fry your own dough fritters.

[caption id="attachment_29066" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Medium[/caption]

Smaller in size than what you might find elsewhere, Hum Jin Pang’s dough fritters come in two varieties – Five Spice Salt and Sweet Red Bean. At six pieces for $1, these fritters are incredibly cheap; you’d be hard pressed to find prices likes these anywhere these days.

Want to have a go at frying your own hum chim pengs? Make a trip to Maxwell Food Centre sometime for lunch, and fall in love with this simple snack all over again!

Hum Jin Pang
Address: Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur St., Singapore 069184
Opening Hours: Daily, 2.30pm – 8pm

Also read Creamier’s New Ice Cream BEER Floats Takes Alcoholic Ice Cream To A Whole New Level

(Header Image Source: )

There’s A Guy Flying Around Near City Hall And People Are Calling Him Iron Man

There is a video making its rounds on social media and it’s of a man flying around with a jetpack; people are already calling him Singapore’s Iron Man.

For a good 50s of the 1:50 long clip, you’ll see (and hear) his jetpack whirring to life, before he’s lifted off the ground and starts flying around at an area near city hall.

 

The man beneath the suit is British inventor Richard Browning. The 38 year old who was formerly a commodities trader began with a mission to “have a huge amount of fun trying to do something that was considered impossible”.

Now, he has in his hands a suit that’s garnered attention from search-and-rescue agencies, military researchers and Hollywood producers. He’s not the only one with a suit like this, with early prototypes of the suit already sold to “high net worth” individuals to the tune of half a million dollars.

Weighing 45kg, the six-engine suit can go “as high and as fast as you like”. While the demonstration was rather modest, the suit can apparently go up to thousands of feet in the air, and reach speeds of around 450kmh. Maneuvered using the arms, the suit allows its wearer to turn, stop and go in three dimensions.

Want one for yourself? Unfortunately, the suit has a ways to go before it can be viable for purposes such as public transportation. In the meantime, we’ll just have to be content with watching from afar.

Also read Let The Force Guide You To An Awesome Star Wars Festival That Will Have You Geeking Out

There’s An Art Exhibition Called ‘Singawhore’ And It Makes Brutal Jabs At Local Culture

Different people have different ways of celebrating our nation on its 52nd birthday.

Some people launch crazy, never-before-seen deals, some people pay homage to our country through inside jokes we Singaporeans are all privy to, and some people… create profane works of art in the name of celebrating Singapore culture and the Singaporean identity.

We’re talking about A Good Citizen, a.k.a ‘好公民’.

Helmed by Citizen Dan, The Good Citizen is known for its brutally honest, unfiltered works of art that traverse themes such as politics, gender, race and religion.

Pop culture-Singapore crossovers are not unusual for the group, who’ve likened the recent #FamiLEE drama to an episode of Game Of Thrones…

[caption id="attachment_28683" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Image Credit: A Good Citizen Facebook[/caption]

depicted how even a Xenomorph (Lee No Morph, get it?) would be tamed into subservience in our strict, regimented society, and more.

[caption id="attachment_28682" align="aligncenter" width="650"] Image Credit: A Good Citizen Facebook[/caption]

From 11 August – 3 September, A Good Citizen will be bringing Singaporeans a series of brand new works in an exhibition called ‘Singawhore‘. Given the name of the exhibition and A Good Citizen’s track record of creating unabashed depictions of trending events in Singapore, we can only imagine what we’ll see once it opens.

[caption id="attachment_28687" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Remember this? (Image Credit: A Good Citizen Facebook)[/caption]

This FREE exhibition will be happening at ARTBLOVK GALLERY, and there will also be a sharing session with Citizen Dan on the opening day, 11 August 2017 at 7pm – 9pm, at the same location. Refreshments will also be provided.

If you like the works you see, limited original artworks will also be available for purchase!

Can’t get enough of satire and have a dark sense of humor? If you do, make sure to check out what the people at A Good Citizen have up their sleeves!

SINGAWHORE
Address: ARTBLOVK GALLERY, 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace, #03-05
Date: 11 Aug – 3 Sep
Admission: Free

Also read These 10 Crazy Twists On The Classic French Fries Are Bound To Satis-fry Your Tastebuds

Forget The Nasi Lemak Burger – Deliveroo Is Sending You REAL Nasi Lemak For Just $0.52

singaporean food

We are fast approaching the month of August, which means one thing for all of us Singaporeans: National Day.

To mark our nation’s 52nd birthday, brands from McDonald’s to Sentosa have pulled out all the stops, rolling out local-inspired dishes and launching unbeatable promos to give us a few more reasons to celebrate. Another brand to join in the celebrations is Deliveroo, and we think this deal is the one to beat.

It involves the number 52, a dish we all love and Coca-Cola.

[caption id="attachment_28671" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image Credit: Deliveroo[/caption]

Deliveroo, a food delivery service we all know (and which some of us depend on), will be riding around delivering ever-hungry Singaporeans Nasi Lemak and Coca-Cola for just 52 cents. Yep, you read that right. This will happen for one day only, on 3 August, so mark your calendars, prep your alarms, and make sure you get your order in.

[caption id="attachment_28672" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Burpple User Julius Lim[/caption]

You won’t be receiving any random ol’ Nasi Lemak, but Crave’s Nasi Lemak Satay Chicken (U.P. $8.90). Have their fragrant basmati rice, crispy fried chicken, ikan bilis, sunny side-up egg, your favourite sambal chili, and a can of Coca-Cola Classic or Coca-Cola Zero Sugar – all without stepping out of the house.

Available for a short window of time from 2pm – 4pm, the lucky folks living or working in Bishan, Clementi, Farrer Park, Harbourfront, Hougang, Orchard, Punggol, Tanjong Pagar and Yishun will be able to savour this treat.

So, forget the Nasi Lemak Burger and get the real deal instead. At just 52 cents, there’s no need to think about it!

Also read Goodbye Bake, Pablo Cheese Tart Is FINALLY Coming To Singapore!

(Header Image Source:

These 10 Crazy Twists On The Classic French Fries Are Bound To Satis-fry Your Tastebuds

If you’re a normal human being with tastebuds and you love fries, keep reading.

You’ve definitely tried the ever-delicious Truffle Fries, but that has had its day. Now, we’re ready for a new type of fry to take over the spotlight.

Some of these are really sinful, but as the saying goes: don’t count your calories, make your calories count. After all, potatoes are a staple too, right?

Here are 10 places to binge on some of the most unique fries you’ve ever come across!

1. Char Siew Chilli Fries

We Singaporeans really do love our fusion foods.

Here’s where Redpan’s Char Siew Chilli Fries come in; a tasty specimen of east meets west.

[caption id="attachment_28550" align="aligncenter" width="1880"] Image Credit: The Ranting Panda[/caption]

The fries are covered in a moist, saucy char siew ragout you won’t be able to stop scooping up!

Think sweet BBQ meat chunks laced with sour cream and jalapeño salsa. Mm mm mm… A step up from your usual fries with meat sauce.

Redpan
Address: 6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square #02-03/04 Singapore 039593
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 9am – 10pm; Sat, Sun & PH: 11am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6255 5850
You can’t go wrong with falling back on a local favourite.

That’s what Loof has done with its heavenly Chilli Crab Fries!

[caption id="attachment_28547" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image Credit:
These fries are drenched in Loof’s signature tangy blue crab dip.

Their waffle-cut shape is perfect for scraping up super big servings of the dip.

Enjoy this with crafted Southeast Asian inspired cocktails for a chill evening at this urban rooftop bar!

Loof
Address: 331 North Bridge Road, #03-07 Odeon Towers Extension Rooftop, Singapore 188720
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 5pm – 1am; Fri – Sat: 5pm – 2am; Closed on Sun
Contact no.: 6337 9416
McDonald’s may be the original creator of these, but we’ve found a better version.

Everything With Fries’ Curry Fries aren’t just sprinkled with curry powder.

[caption id="attachment_28555" align="aligncenter" width="768"] Image Credit:
Rather, the fries here are tossed with fried curry leaves, and heavily spiced with a highly addictive curry powder.

An eatery specializing in fries, the fries here definitely do not disappoint.

Order these as a side to their burgers, or have them on their own – we know we would!

Everything With Fries
Address: #04-05, Bugis Junction, 200 Victoria St, Singapore, 188021
Opening Hours: Sun – Mon: 10am – 11pm; Fri – Sat: 10am – 1am
Contact no.: 6463 3741
These fries have to be the most sinful of the lot.

Introducing Duck Fat Fries!

[caption id="attachment_28552" align="aligncenter" width="1698"] Image Credit: TripAdvisor[/caption]

These fries are fried in duck fat two to three times.

The result is a crispy outer layer that’s guilt-inducing, but oh-so-flavourful.

At Les Bouchons, these delicious babies are free flow with every main!

Les Bouchons
Address: 7 Ann Siang Road, Singapore 069689
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 7pm – 11pm; Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 7pm – 12am; Sat: 7pm – 12am; Closed on Sun
Contact no.: 6423 0737
Fans of all things Korean, listen up!

Here’s where you can get one of the best Kimchi Fries in Singapore.

[caption id="attachment_28664" align="aligncenter" width="700"]
Image Credit: Deliveroo[/caption]

At Don’t Tell Mama, the fries are served with real kimchi; none of that artificial kimchi powder you may get at some other places.

The fries are drizzled with generous amounts of homemade kimchi mayo, with extra jalapenos and onions for that sharp, spicy kick.

There are also chunks of pulled pork hidden within the dish to make it more filling.

It’s definitely something we’d order as a meal instead of just as a snack.

Don’t Tell Mama
Address: 52 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088473
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 5.30pm – 2am; Fri – Sat: 5.30pm – 3am; Closed on Sun
Now, here’s a healthy(ish) option.

House At Dempsey’s Pumpkin Hazelnut Fries are sure to delight with it’s unique mish mash of flavours.

[caption id="attachment_28551" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image Credit:
Deenise Glitz[/caption]

Sweet, nutty and spicy sensations hit you with each bite you take.

The fries are actually deep fried pumpkin slices, while the hazelnut bits give them the nutty flavour and crunch.

It’s not all sweet though – there’s also chilli powder and paprika in it for that extra kick that makes it so appetizing.

House At Dempsey
Address: 8D Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249672
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 12pm – 11pm; Fri: 12pm – 12am; Sat: 11am – 4pm, 6pm – 12am; Sun: 9am – 4pm, 6pm – 11pm
Contact no.: 64757787
This dish combines two of our favourite things – pizza and fries. 

The two flavours are a match made in heaven, and we’re glad they’ve finally gotten together.

[caption id="attachment_28549" align="aligncenter" width="1202"] Image Credit:
’s fries are covered with loads of melted cheese, three-cheese sauce and smoky pepperoni slices. 

It’s paired with a savoury house-made bacon ketchup.

Is it sinful? Yes. Is it worth it? Definitely

Alter Ego
Address: 8 Raffles Avenue #01-13D Singapore 039802
Opening Hours: Sun – Thu: 11am – 11pm; Eve of PH, Fri, Sat: 11am – 1am
Contact no.: 63279301
Salted egg yolk has made its way into all sorts of foods recently, and Arbite Cafe has hopped onto the bandwagon with its Salted Egg Yolk Fries!

[caption id="attachment_28545" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Burpple[/caption]

Their crispy fries are coated all over in the all-familiar salted egg yolk sauce!

For less than $10, you’ll get a mean serving of these golden babies, so share away!

That said, we would be more than willing to brave a sore throat to finish a whole plate of this ourselves.

Arbite Cafe
Address: 66 Serangoon Garden Way Singapore 555962
Opening Hours: Tue – Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm; Sat & Sun: 11am – 10.30pm
Contact no.: 6287 0430
Website

9. SPAM Fries

Here’s the ultimate diet-killer.

Spam Fries – or deep fried cuts of luncheon meat – are apparently a thing now.

[caption id="attachment_28554" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Imade Credit: serves this in thick cuts and in a large portion.

Scoop up some of the Kaffir lime mayo dip for a flavour combo you’ve probably never tried before!

This is probably the fanciest form good old luncheon meat will ever take. 

Strangers Reunion
Address: 35 Kampong Bahru Rd Singapore 169356
Opening Hours: Wed – Mon: 9am – 10pm; Fri & Sat: 09am – 12am
Contact no.: 6222 4869
Facebook

10. Truffle Taro Fries

Okay, so we cheated and threw in some Truffle Fries.

But these ones are made with Taro, and that makes all the difference.

[caption id="attachment_28556" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Burpple Guides[/caption]

House At Dempsey’s shoestring truffle taro fries are a power combination.

Unlike the the rest of its heavier counterparts, these fries are as light as air.

The taro fries are dipped generously in batter and fried to maximum crispiness.

Together with the fragrance of truffle oil, this becomes the ultimate snack for both truffle and taro lovers alike.

House At Dempsey
Address: 8D Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249672
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 12pm – 11pm; Fri: 12pm – 12mn; Sat: 11am – 4pm, 6pm – 12mn; Sun: 9am – 4pm, 6pm – 11pm
Contact no.: 64757787
Website

Are you ready to satis-fry your deepest cravings?

We say, skip the McDonald’s fries and try out one of these out-of-this-world creations on your next cheat day.

Also read 10 Fresh Events And Food Spots That Have Just Popped Up In The Second Half Of July [16-31 July]

This Brush Lettering Class Gives You Hope Even If You Have Ugly Handwriting

It’s probably safe to say we’ve all seen pictures of brush lettering.

A trend that’s taken flight in weddings, hipster cafes, and that’s seen on many a motivational quote on Pinterest, many of us find ourselves wishing we too could write such pretty calligraphy! If you’re anything like me, this would promptly lead you down two trains of thought: (1) it’s probably really expensive to learn and (2) I won’t be able to master it anyway.

[caption id="attachment_28639" align="aligncenter" width="564"] Brush lettering (Image Credit: Pinterest)[/caption]

That’s certainly what I thought, until I came to Witty Studio and tried their Watercolour Brush Lettering Class.

Learn calligraphy without breaking the bank

A relatively new brand, Witty Studio was started up by the friendly, approachable Priscilla.

[caption id="attachment_28638" align="alignnone" width="6720"] Priscilla, the Founder of Witty Studio[/caption]

With her classes priced at just $95 per person per session (and $85/person if you bring a friend), this 4.5h workshop is much more affordable compared to most calligraphy classes, which typically costs between $100 – $150 for a shorter duration of 3 hours.

A warm welcome

The workshop is held at Stamping Ground Coffee, a shared space that houses 3 concepts: coffee, flowers, and space. Stepping through the Stamping Ground doors, you immediately feel inspired and excited by the vibrant, unique space.

When I arrived at the workshop, I was pleasantly surprised to find that we were each given a pretty lace coaster with our names written on it in brush lettering! Pretty and Insta-worthy, this wasn’t the only bit of personalisation done by the team at Witty Studio – everyone also received a small motivational quote card and place card so that people seated at the same table could easily mingle and interact with each other.

Some of the returning students also got birthday cards, which was a sweet touch!

[caption id="attachment_28642" align="alignnone" width="6720"] All the materials you need for the class are provided[/caption]

All the materials we would need for the class were set at our assigned spot: a set of worksheets, a brush, a personal palette, and a bunch of water colour papers for us to do any of our rough work. There were also sharing sets of water colour paints at each table.

[caption id="attachment_28631" align="alignnone" width="6720"] Light bites are also provided at this workshop![/caption]

The next thing you notice when you enter the class is FREE FOOD. Small finger foods like mini donuts, bite-sized pizza coins, brownie cubes and small packets of gummy candy were also neatly displayed, free for students to eat!

Picking up the basics

Once every one of the 20+ students had arrived and had settled down, the class began, but not before Priscilla told the class to “take as many Instagram photos as you want. Nobody is going to judge you here!”

[caption id="attachment_28632" align="alignnone" width="6720"] Take as many photos as you want![/caption]

After Priscilla gave a short demonstration on the basic techniques of brush lettering, we started practicing on our own.

From vertical lines, we went to simple alphabets like ‘j’ and ‘c’. After filling our water colour papers with our crummy paintwork, we got the hang of it – some of us faster than others, but we got there eventually!

Fun fact: ‘r’ and ‘s’ are the most challenging alphabets to master – I can testify to this.

[caption id="attachment_28633" align="alignnone" width="4048"] ‘j’ and ‘c’ are the easiest alphabets to master[/caption]

After that, we started working on our worksheets, and the three teachers went around demonstrating the motion of different alphabets. They were very patient with us and their instructions were easy to follow.

[caption id="attachment_28637" align="alignnone" width="6720"] The 3 teachers move around the class, helping anyone who needs it[/caption]

Like doing primary school penmanship, we wrote each individual letter 7-10 times and got the hang of writing each alphabet. From lower case alphabets, we graduated to upper case alphabets, and finally to full words (this was the tough part).

Once we were done with our alphabets, we were ready to move on to watercolour flowers!

[caption id="attachment_28634" align="alignnone" width="4048"] Watercolour flowers[/caption]

One of the teachers came around to demonstrate it to us and the effect was super pretty!

We experimented with different colours and techniques of creating the beautiful watercolour flowers. Again, practice makes perfect, and eventually, we created some not fantastic, but not altogether terrible flowers. There were some really talented folks in the class who managed to create Pinterest-worthy flower wreaths and borders in just one lesson – we’re not kidding!

[caption id="attachment_28635" align="alignnone" width="4048"] The student who painted this says this was her first lesson![/caption]

Talent definitely comes into play a little bit when it comes to how quickly you pick up the skill of writing and painting, but even for the most talentless student (i.e. me), you can still create some pretty decent work if you put your mind to it – even in the short 4.5 hours. From there on, it’s just practice, practice, practice, and you’ll get there.

Create your own masterpiece

All this learning and practicing culminates in one thing – creating your own masterpiece.

With your masterpiece, you get free reign to do whatever you want. You can paint a quote, a word, a whole sheet of flowers, etc. Use whatever you’ve learnt in the class to create something to call your own and to take home!

[caption id="attachment_28636" align="alignnone" width="4048"] Another first timer did this![/caption]

Some of our classmates created some incredible final products, proving it’s actually possible to create a real masterpiece, even after just one lesson.

Take your final product to the “flatlay table” and show off your handiwork on your Instagram!

Fun, easy, and oh-so-worth it

When class ended, we were bummed that it was over. We hardly felt the time pass and we were just getting good at our flowers and brush lettering! But the class imparted in us all the basics so it’s definitely possible to take what you’ve learnt, practice at home and become good in your own time.

[caption id="attachment_28641" align="alignnone" width="6720"] Calligraphy[/caption]

That said, we enjoyed ourselves so much that we would definitely be back for a second lesson! After all, practicing around fun, like-minded people beats going at it alone in the quiet of your room.

[caption id="attachment_28640" align="alignnone" width="6720"] Students practicing together[/caption]

Returning, more advanced students are given separate tasks and are taught different techniques, so you will definitely get your money’s worth on your second class, and subsequent sessions as well.

Aside from your masterpiece, you get to take home all the little cards and knick-knacks that have been personalised for you, as well as all the materials you were given at the start of class. You’ll also be given a brand new set of watercolour paints so you can put to practice all the things you’ve learnt at the workshop!

We absolutely loved the energy and vibe of the workshop – the quick friendships that formed between students, the camaraderie between the patient, fun-loving (and sometimes cheeky) teachers and students, and the fact that you can learn and have fun at the same time here. Unlike a class where you work silently to master a skill, here, you’re chatting, popping gummy candy into your mouth, and having fun while learning an interesting skill!

The workshop definitely proved one thing, which is that no one is beyond hope when it comes to brush lettering.

To sign up for a class, either send a direct message to Witty Studio’s Instagram or email Priscilla directly at [email protected]! Witty Studio conducts classes once a month, so be sure to sign up early to secure a spot!

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Changi Airport Terminal 4 Automated Not Just The Departure Process, But Also Its Cleaning Aunties

Changi Airport has long been a source of national pride and joy.

A world class airport that’s received multiple awards and accolades, it seems Changi Airport can do no wrong. With the unveiling of Terminal 4, Changi Airport has upped the ante, especially on the tech front.

The theme of Changi Terminal 4 is “vibrant, fun and positively surprising”, and passing through the airport, there are fun, surprising features lurking in places you might not expect. With petal motifs, an eclectic array of chairs and seating surfaces, and rounded lines permeating the space, the vibe of this terminal is certainly a change from that of Changi’s other terminals.

A Fully Automated Departure Process

One key difference between Terminal 4 and the rest of the terminals is that T4 boasts a fully automated departure process – a feature that may be particularly exciting for those of you who are constantly travelling.

[caption id="attachment_28582" align="alignnone" width="6720"] Automated Check-In Kiosks[/caption]

This automation is helped by state-of-the-art facial recognition technology that’s integrated within the self-service stations that span every point of the departure process, from check-in to bag drop, to immigration, to boarding.

The benefit of that to travelers? Less queues, less waiting around, and greater convenience in general.

Many of you may already be familiar with some of these technologies, such as the automated check-in kiosk, automated bag drop and automated immigration gate. While not entirely new, T4 has implemented an added layer of security (i.e Facial Recognition Technology) to several of these self-service stations, i.e. bag drop and immigration.

At these stages, the self-service station will verify your identity with the use of photo captures of your face.

[caption id="attachment_28585" align="alignnone" width="6720"] Automatic Boarding Gate[/caption]

The boarding gate is also automated, and will also comprise a photo verification step. Hopefully, this will mean shorter waiting times when boarding your flight!

Centralised Security Screening

Owing to its relatively small size, Changi’s Terminal 4 will have a centralised security screening. That is, instead of getting your carry-on items checked at your gate, all passengers will have their carry-on luggage screened at one place.

This stage of the departure process boasts some shiny new pieces of tech and a long overdue solution to the bottlenecks that happen in the carry-on items screening process.

Instead of having to use multiple trays and to remove your laptop, phone, and all your devices at this point, at T4, you can just dump all your carry-on items into one large tray, and push that onto the conveyor belt. The items are then passed through a stronger hospital grade Computed Tomography scan for screening.

Bags that are good to go are streamed into one lane, and bags that are flagged are streamed into a second lane, where a security officer will instruct you to open your bag for a manual check. For bags that have no issue, simply remove your item(s). The tray will then disappear down a slot and be returned to the start of the line!

Automated Cleaning Auntie

Another thing – or job – that’s been automated at Changi’s Terminal 4 is cleaning.

[caption id="attachment_28586" align="alignnone" width="6720"] Cleaning Auntie Robot[/caption]

You’ll notice adorable robots like these rolling around the airport, keeping the complex clean.

Dressed in the same yellow uniform as Changi’s cleaning staff, these “cleaning aunties” are able to detect objects in front of them, and will stop when an obstruction is detected; just make sure you don’t get in the way of them doing their jobs!

Immersive Entertainment Experiences

Those of us who’ve been to the airport often enough will know one thing about Changi Airport – it’s big on art.

With T4, Changi delivers a spectacular art-entertainment display in 2 locations – the Central Departure Security Screening Area and the Heritage Zone.

[caption id="attachment_28591" align="alignnone" width="1521"] Image Credit: Changi Airport Group[/caption]

At the Central Departure Screening Area, you’ll find a 70m x 5m Immersive Wall. The LED display will show 1 of 17 different immersive pieces of content, each of which lasts between 2 – 4 minutes. Every 10 minutes, you’ll be treated to either a mesmerising display of ASEAN landmarks, the iconic sights and skyline of Singapore (e.g the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, the Esplanade), or an animation that will delight both young and old!

Another feature that floored us was the Peranakan Love Story at the Heritage Zone.

[caption id="attachment_28580" align="alignnone" width="1738"] Image Credit: Changi Airport Group[/caption]

Upon entering the Heritage Zone, you’ll see a stretch of colourful shophouses. Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that if viewed from left to right, it shows the evolution of this style of home, from the Baroque design (1880 – 1900), to the Rococo style (1910-1920), to the Peranakan style (1920 -1936), to Modern decor (1936 – 1950).

A beautiful facade, you wouldn’t think two of these shophouses are in fact LED screens – that is, until it transforms into a theatre.

The digital wall transitions seamlessly into a theatre, screening the stunning Peranakan Love Story. The six-minute musical tells the story of a romance between two next door neighbors who are both passionate musicians. Look closely and you’ll notice familiar faces including Adrian Pang, Benjamin Kheng, Koh Chieng Mun and Amy Cheng. Created in collaboration with Singaporean composer and artiste, Dick Lee, the film is a visual spectacle with its effortless transitions and charming story.

See It All For Yourselves!

Curious to check out the tech and art for yourselves?

You won’t have to wait much longer because Changi Airport Terminal 4 will be conducting an open house from 7 – 20 August!

Head down, check out all the brand new features, and fantasize about your next adventure abroad while you’re there!

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