Sungei Road mural

Once a bustling hub of activity, the Sungei Road mural captures the energy of a bygone era. This artwork immortalizes the Sungei Road Thieves Market, a place steeped in history and intrigue. The market, established in the 1930s, was originally nicknamed “Robinson Petang,” a playful jab at the upscale Robinson department store. The Sungei Road mural depicts this vibrant scene, a chaotic yet captivating blend of vendors, goods, and the lively energy of the market. The artist, Low Hai Hong, masterfully uses oil on paper to create a sense of both frenzy and calm. The detail in the Sungei Road mural is striking. Crates and goods spill onto the road, canvas roofs provide shade, and pedestrians weave their way through the throngs of people. Shophouses stand tall, with poles of clothes jutting out from their windows. The artist’s use of white space is intentional, providing a visual respite from the busyness of the market. This breathing room allows the viewer to fully appreciate the intricacies of the scene. During World War II, the Sungei Road Thieves Market became a vital source of essential items. In the post-war years, it gained notoriety as a place where stolen goods were traded, earning it the moniker “Thieves Market.” The market transitioned into a secondhand market in the 1950s, with rag-and-bone men selling a wide array of old products. The Sungei Road mural, painted in 1988, perfectly captures the atmosphere of this era. The market’s eventual decline began in the 1970s, as the government sought to relocate the vendors. The tug-of-war continued until 2017, when the Sungei Road Thieves Market finally closed its doors. The Sungei Road mural stands as a testament to the market’s enduring legacy, preserving its vibrant history for generations to come.