Imagination is a wondrous thing and when real plantkeepers turn their imagination and focus to keep children’s interests engaged with the natural world, artists emerge … in this case, a conceptualised graphic Web comic series with animated characters called Plantkeepers (normally unseen in the hustle and bustle of the Gardens by the Bay) who take care of plants now that there are less people around.
Created for children by the staff in 2020, the one-page comic series has 13 episodes (as of June 2021), with more in the pipeline. They offer insights into the operations of the Gardens and contain feel-good messages. It is likely that the characters could become downloadable colouring sheets, crossword puzzles and other DIY activities that entertain children, especially during the school holidays.
Meet :
- Sprout, the first otter born on the shores of Waterfront Promenade, of the bold and daring spirit …
- Ricky-Rhodo, loud and proud and a protector of the Cloud Forest …
- Olivia the Olive, kind and gentle, with stewardship of the Flower Dome …
- Everlasting Eric, the biggest Supertree, who takes care of new plants …
- Sindora, well-meaning and kind-hearted, the go-to Plantkeeper for advice …
- Darcy, the fastidious dragonfly, scrupulous about cleanliness …
Stay tuned here.
