Every now and then, I will have friends asking me where I get my Gundams and supplies. I always direct them to Hobby Art Gallery, short for "HAG". I think it is about time I write something about them.
Firstly, some history. Back in 2002, I am still an amateur in Gundam modeling and was heading nowhere. Back in those days, Gundam wasn't really popular even though it has been around for quite some time. I do not have any friends who share the same hobby and I would feel "lonely" at times. However, my girlfriend back then (now my wife) shared the same enthusiasm as me.
Well, that changed completely when I stumbled upon HAG. I could still vividly remember that day I was at Sunshine Plaza with my wife for lunch. As I sat there having my meal, something caught my eye. I saw some Gundams on display! Oh boy, you wouldn't know how happy I was! I stood outside for awhile admiring the completed models and finally mustered enough courage to walk in. "Muster enough courage"? Well yes, I was afraid that it would turn out to be another "collector" toy shop. Of course I was wrong.
Rows and rows of Gundam boxes greeted me. I thought I had never seen so much in my life. I was overwhelmed and stood there as dead as a log. Looking at me, this petite lady behind the counter would probably assumed that I came from Mars. She was none other than Joyce, the owner of HAG. I was busily keep mental tabs on all the Gundams for sale that I became so oblivious of my surroundings. I was like a boy counting the number of birthday presents he received. These are really sweet memories.
I could not remember whether I bought anything that day. But I signed up as HAG member number 12 which I am mightily proud of it even until now. Little did I know that this shop and its people will play a important role in this hobby of mine in time to come.
Ok, enough of the history lesson. Now to the topic proper. Located conveniently at
Sunshine Plaza, Bencoolen Street, HAG specialize in Gundam merchandise. Operating hours from Tuesdays to Sundays and Public Holidays, 1.00 pm to 7.00pm. And close on Mondays. Contact number: 6334 5340.
You will find most of the Gundams in the store and there is a wide array of modeling tools and option parts for sale. And if there is something that you can't find, you can always ask the bosses, Joyce and Sam.
HAG do provide lessons for those interested in taking up this hobby. And over the years, they have groomed several champions for BAKUC junior category.
Shop Front
One special feature of HAG is their display. You will find the most number of finished models put on display all in one place. These models are contributed by our local modelers and that would include me :)
Models on display, those LEDs are a killer!!!
