Fieldnote May 2 2023 - 1:18pm

In this visit, we were focused on stringing seashells onto the wooden branches as art pieces for the exhibition. While I was patiently waiting for Molly to demonstrate how we should handle the materials, the ah mas had already started on the project, naturally picking up the shells and tying them with the aluminium strings. I was surprised that they did not need much support and illustration from Molly or us to carry out the task. All they needed was a model for them to follow. As I watched them skilfully punch holes into the shells and coil wires, I wondered if their past experiences with woodwork played a part in training their handicraft skills. Embarking on this project seemed like a breeze to them, as compared to how I was struggling to even turn a single coil around a shell. This left me with more questions on the ways their past has shaped their current lives - whether in terms of the way they dress, work, eat, live and communicate.