Preedee TeoMost of us use the public transport system daily for our commutes, often overlooking its impressive design, both visually and functionally. Rubina Gan, a retiree and passionate photographer, hopes to remind Singaporeans to take a moment to pause and seek out the beauty around them.
How did it begin?
In a Facebook post on 19 Jul 2024, the 57-year-old shared a series of photos she took as she went on an adventure to uncover the beauty of our MRT stations. Her stunning shots highlight the architectural elegance and sophisticated design of various stations, giving us a unique glimpse into an abstract world and its hidden beauty the way she saw it.
Also read: Singapore Ranked Safest City for Tourists According to New Survey
Capturing symmetry and elegance
1. Marine Parade
One of the standout images is of Marine Parade station, where Rubina captured the escalators and train platforms in perfect symmetry. Another striking photo features the circular rooflight at Toa Payoh station, taken at a rare moment when the usually crowded area was nearly empty.
2. Stadium
The Circle Line’s Stadium station takes you deep underground, offering a dramatic view as you descend to the platform. It’s a striking reminder of the scale and design of our transit infrastructure.
3. Tuas Link
With its distinctive overground roof, Tuas Link station features a galvanised square steel aesthetic, standing out with its unique design.
4. Gardens by the Bay
In perfect harmony with its lush surroundings, the Gardens by the Bay MRT station certainly lives up to its name as it boasts a backdrop of vibrant greenery and flowers, complemented by the warm gold-illuminated interior and a striking cold blue-tiered roof.
5. Stevens
The Stevens station thrills with its elegant circle motifs on both the roof and floor, adding a touch of sophistication to your transfer and making each step an adventurous discovery. Go on and admire its symmetrical magnificence; let’s hope that you won’t get vertigo if you stare too long at it!
6. Caldecott
Caldecott station offers a spectacular environment with its grand structures and aesthetic walls. The station stands out with its distinctive X motif, which becomes even more captivating as you ascend and descend the escalators.
6. Bencoolen
Bencoolen station’s wallpaper in shades of red adds a splash of color and vibrancy, making your transit experience a bit more lively.
7. Rochor
Rochor MRT station, one of Singapore’s older stations, features a chic black-and-white ceiling that remains stylish and eye-catching.
8. Expo
The Expo station offers a bright and spacious feel with its symmetrical ceiling design and mirrors, creating a visually pleasing waiting area.
9. Shenton Way
Shenton Way, part of the Thomson-East Coast Line, features wallpaper adorned with old Singapore dollar notes, giving it a nostalgic, museum-like charm.
10. Bayshore
As a key station on the brown line, Bayshore embraces an earthy brown theme, adding warmth and character to the station’s design.
Finding beauty in the mundane
Rubina’s talent shines through in her ability to transform the mundane into the visually pleasing, as seen in her shot of the escalators at Shenton Way station. Her Facebook post has since gone viral, garnering over 1,800 shares and 240 comments, with netizens praising her eye for photography and the beauty of the MRT stations.
Also read: 10 Fun Pet Cafes in Singapore
Beyond MRT Stations
Apart from MRT stations, Rubina has also photographed hotel lobbies, building ceilings, and staircases, showcasing her versatility and passion for architectural photography. While she has been dabbling in photography for many years, Rubina shared that it was only in recent years that she has become more involved in the hobby.
Just goes to show that beauty can be found in everyday life, if we just know where to look!
All images credited to Rubina Gan | Facebook; featured image credit: catchlights_sg via Canva Pro
