Amid Tanjong Pagar's skyscrapers and gentrified hipster bars, you'll find Say Tiang Hng (translated to Heaven's Garden in Hokkien), a quiet family-owned craft shop. Filled from floor-to-ceiling with handcrafted wooden statues of Taoist deities of all sizes, this unique hidden gem has been around since 1896.
Today, this unassuming shop is one of Singapore’s last surviving heritage businesses. The fourth-generation owner runs the business and shares stories of Taoist deities in hopes of preserving the dying craft of effigy-making. Meet the passionate artists to uncover the intriguing elements of Taoist philosophy, culture, history and design.
Learn about the colourful myths and legends of hundreds of Taoist deities and iconographies like motifs, facial features and even weapons. Find out more about the craft and how the second generation owners struggled to run the business while raising a family with seven kids.
Fascinating introduction to Taoism in Singapore and the family behind Say Tian Hng, as well as the techniques used in their craft. Enthusiastic guide and friendly artisans!