If loss were a currency: writing loss, memory, and place

As part of the Lost, Found & Everything In-Between programme, these creative-writing workshops & dialogues invite participants to explore Katong-Joo Chiat through writing, observation and reflection. Participants’ contributions and works will also be featured as part of the programme’s exhibition in 2027. 

Workshop 1: Making Marks
7 November 2026, 2.00pm–4.00pm

What does it mean to leave a mark? And what might be lost — or found — in making one?

Beginning with writing as mark-making — from marks scratched, carved or drawn onto surfaces to the words we write today — participants will explore how writing can both leave something behind and create an absence. Through a playful writing walk around Katong-Joo Chiat, participants will respond to the marks, traces, words and details they encounter, gathering photographs and written fragments as starting points for creative work.

Workshop 2: On Remarks
5 December 2026, 2.00pm–4.00pm

What happens when a mark becomes a remark? And what responsibilities come with saying something about a place?

Through collective reading and reflection, participants will explore interpretation and responsibility in storytelling. They will develop their responses through writing, photography or film, considering how different forms shape what can be expressed, before concluding with an informal sharing.

This workshop is part of HAN@Katong-Joo Chiat, presented by Katong Culture and supported by the National Heritage Board, as part of Heritage Activation Nodes.

What to Bring: Participants are required to bring a smartphone or digital camera, a notebook & pen (physical or digital), as they will be taking and uploading photographs to accompany their writing.

Venue: Library Room (Ground Floor), Joo Chiat Community Club, 405 Joo Chiat Road

Ticket: $5 per person per workshop

Workshop Participation: Each workshop can be attended independently, and participants may sign up for either or both workshops. While attendance at both is not required, joining both workshops will offer a fuller experience.

1. Things to note:

Participants are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the programme. The programme will begin on time. 

This programme is most suited for participants aged 16 & above.

2. Disclaimer:

This is a rain or shine event with an outdoor component. Participants are encouraged to bring water and umbrellas, and are recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothes suitable for the weather. 

The programme may be cancelled or altered in the event of inclement weather (e.g, hazardous haze conditions, flooding, etc.) or unforeseen circumstances affecting the programme (e.g., road closures, etc.). If so, participants will be informed and alternative arrangements will be made to the best of the organiser's abilities. 

3. Refund Policy:

Kindly note that no refund or exchange of tickets is allowed under any circumstance except for programme cancellation. 

By registering for this programme, participants agree:

a) that the programme organiser(s) and NHB may take photographs and/or videos of them (or their child as applicable) and use the images and/or videos including to archive, exhibit and publish them for publicity;

b) for the programme organiser(s) and NHB to contact them regarding the programme that they have signed up for, as well as other communication that may be of interest to them; and

c) that the personal information supplied will be strictly used for the purposes stated above.