The east side has always held a certain old-world charm to it, what with the conserved shophouses and winding alleyways behind quirky stores. This weekend, it’s about to get even more intriguing. From Dec 15-16, an inaugural art trail called MINI EXTRAODDINARY (yes, with double ‘D’s) will take over the Katong and Joo Chiat neighbourhoods with a series of pop-up installations and activities.

This weekend only, take a gander around the neighbourhood to spot the 19 art installations and experiential activities, tucked in both nooks and crannies and well-loved locations. The Song Kee Kopitiam, for one, will be transformed into a community library of books, curated by leading figures in the local design, photography and architecture scenes. Yong Teochew Kueh shop will see their window canopies rejuvenated as pieces of string art; elsewhere, a custom-built ten-seater swing beckons you to hop on.

Bringing together a healthy mix of local artists, the line-up includes emerging names like illustrators Dahlia Loren and Chong Wah (or “Krome”), as well as familiar established players like photographer Aik Beng Chia, yarn artist Adeline Loo, and bookstore Basheer Graphic Books. Each artist was asked to take their craft beyond their usual contexts to transform ordinary open spaces.

The event is organised as part of automobile brand MINI’s global initiative to explore the creative use of space. Thankfully, the entire route is walkable (through the interactive map here) and won’t require you to actually steer a MINI through.

MINI EXTRAODDINARY happens Dec 15-16, from 10am-7pm, around Katong and Joo Chiat. Admission is free. More information here.