Introducing the Singaporean public to the myriad of artifacts discovered in Pompeii, Italy, this well-received exhibition was designed to elucidate both sides of the coin: the horror and awe of the Vesuvius’ volcanic eruption and the wealth of ancient Roman history that was conserved in the volcanic rock.
Presenting a well-known collection of artefacts, gsmprjct° decided to turn the classical exhibition formula on its head and have visitors live the experience not through the eyes of a Pompeiian, but through the eyes of an archaeologist. As though sifting through the volcanic rock for the first time, visitors are first hit by the horror of the eruption as they walk through the body casts of eruption victims, set to dramatic lighting and music, followed by a 3D show of the volcano’s eruption.
After the initial shock, the visitors follow archaeologists through their discovery of the ruins conserved beneath, beginning with public markets and shrines followed by private homes, displaying artifacts ranging from statues to jewellery and frescos. All the artifacts are shown as archaeologists see them; often only hinting at their former grandeur, faithfully arranged to reflect their original placement in a typical Pompeiian home. Scale photographs of the current ruins of Pompeii provide the backdrop against which the artifacts are displayed and the sounds of cicadas and the hustle of people put the visitor in the archaeologist’s shoes as he surveys the site.
While offering a privileged glimpse into the lifestyle of ancient Romans, the exhibition stays true to the emotional human character of Pompeii’s story, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.