A Frame In Time - S1E2: National Language Class

A Frame in Time explores life in Singapore between colonialism and self governance, merger and separation and beyond. Helmed by auteur Kelvin Tong, the documentary starts with an iconic oil painting in the National Gallery Singapore. It takes the audience on an intimate journey from the 1950s to the 1970s, stopping at poignant milestones to hear personal stories of a time gone by.

Featuring the works of accomplished artist Lai Foong Moi, Cultural Medallion winner Chua Mia Tee and social realist Koeh Sia Yong, the three-part docu drama shows us Singapore through different lenses. We find out why many of our pioneering generation are able to speak Malay and how hawkers in the early days started out as illegal street vendors. Enchanted by the sounds of the streets, we witness the working class eke out a life in a young Singapore. We reflect on the social issues and propositions the artists have made through their paintings.