2024
Yeo Boon Khim Mind Science Centre (YBK MSC) is a research centre of National University of Singapore (NUS) and National University Health Systems (NUHS). MAELab, the gallery arm of the centre is an innovative space that showcases seasonal curations of mental health themes. Visitors will be in for a visual and cognitive discovery of how art, mindfulness and various transdisciplinary research areas can give rise to creative and integrative interventions for the community.
Maelab's third curation, titled Nature's Embrace seeks to offer an immersive exploration of the profound connection between nature and mental well-being. Curated by MAELab with support from National Parks Board (NParks), this exhibition blends creative exhibits with the healing elements of nature, exploring the transformative link between mindfulness and the mind-body-nature connection.
In the design of the exhibition, our goal was to transport visitors into a natural setting where they are encouraged to reflect upon their relationship with the environment and this serves as a catalyst towards embracing nature as a vital resource for mental wellness. The entrance makes use of hanging vines to create a serene arrival experience, akin to entering a forest pathway. Divided into thematic zones(A Stronger Mind, Mindfulness in Action and Restorative Zones), the exhibition itself is filled with abundant greenery that highlight different aspects of the nature-mental well-being connection. Sensory pathways are also created within the exhibition through calming forest scents amid the sight of towering trees and the sounds of gentle water flowing, to encourage mindful breathing and relaxation.
In collaboration with Hortherapeutics
