Instead of spending the afternoon jostling with crowds and rubbing shoulders with sweaty strangers in the narrow streets of Chinatown, escape the relentless heat and bask in the festive mood at a well-ventilated, air-conditioned shopping paradise along Orchard Road -- ION Orchard.
Even before entering, it is impossible to miss the two dragons that stand majestically, guarding the entrance to ION Orchard. Inspired by the ancient Chinese art form of paper-cutting, the 18-metre dragons twirling around the 6-storey high pillars roar to life, ushering a new year of good fortune. We check out what other exciting activities are in-store for shoppers this Chinese New Year.
Catch a glimpse of the limited edition Vertu Dragon phone
Stepping into the mall, the dragon tributes continue. Luxury mobile phone manufacturer retailer, Vertu, unveils its limited edition, signature Dragon Phone, which has an extensively detailed four-claw dragon monogram on the battery cover. Adorned with precious stones and top-grade metals, this phone is bound to be popular among the well heeled who would like to kick-start the auspicious Lunar New Year in opulence.
Showcased alongside the Dragon Phone is the new stunning Constellation, the first touch phone from Vertu. The phone comes with three tailor-made apps that ensure phone users receive exclusive services that are relevant and integrated to lifestyle. Wine-loving users will adore this phone -- with a touch of a gleaming button, the phone instantly becomes a sommelier, providing expert opinions round the clock via the Vertu Concierge.
Vertu Premier Launch, Level 1 Atrium, ION Orchard. On display from 12-20 January 2012.
Admire the haute couture adaptation of the Dragon theme
Presenting its own interpretation with a stylish haute couture adaptation of the dragon theme, fashion lovers will be inspired by the modern ION Orchard woman -- a symbol of strength, vigour and independence. The mannequin, wrapped around by a hand-cut, red dragon custom two-tiered skit fanning out, is exhibited at the second floor of the mall from now till 29 January 2012.
Revel in the intricate works of art
Paper cutting is a traditional folk art in China, and is a popular form of decoration for the Lunar New Year. The merlion, a local mythical symbol akin to the Chinese dragon, takes on an image of prosperity and hope at local newcomer, Frank Tay’s solo exhibition at ION Art, as part of ION’s “Tale of the Red Merlions and Other New Year Goodies”. Tay’s intricately designed paper cutouts represent young and resilient merlions undaunted by choppy waters and staying together to face a nation’s challenges.
From 18-29 January 2012, visitors are invited to feast their eyes on other works by local and regional artists. Besides traditional Chinese ink paintings by Ho Sou Ping and Li Wei Yan, Andre Tan’s anachronistic local pop art and nostalgic shop fronts by Foo Kwee Hong are also on display.
ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn Singapore 238801. Tel: +65 62388228.
Open Daily: 10am - 10pm www.ionorchard.com