Thankfully, art galleries play a big part in providing newcomers with the opportunity to showcase their talents. And one venue that has done much to support Malaysians and their art is Petaling Jaya’s Artas Galeri.
This year, the gallery is celebrating its third anniversary with much gusto – and an art show. On Sunday, artists and art lovers alike attended the launch of “Lembaran”, which features the works of a whopping 47 artists from all across the country. The event was officiated by art collector Rizal Il-Ehzan Fadil Azim.
On display for viewing or purchase, the array of artworks is nothing short of diverse. From paintings to sculptures, abstract to realistic, there are so many gorgeous pieces on display here that it is a veritable feast for the eyes.
It is hard to say which is most worthy of attention, as each draws its own share of admirers. In one corner, you have Khairi Fakhri’s “Dragon Fish I”, a detailed artwork crafted with bitumen replicating the intricate details of marine life.
Speaking with FMT, he said it was an honour to have his pieces on display alongside so many other talented artists.
“Galleries like Artas give artists a chance to put their works out there. That way, the artwork gets an audience instead of being stowed away in the back,” he said.
He further credited galleries for playing an integral role in elevating local art to the international level, and helping connect artists to art lovers.
Among the sculptures on display were creations by Zainuddin Abindinhazir, who possesses an artist’s mind and a metalworker’s hands.
Indeed, his metallic creations are a marvel of the forge. To reshape metal into various forms is surely no easy task; as such, his plantlike sculptures – roots, branches and all – are testament to his skills.
“I’m thankful that my works have been selected for this exhibition,” he told FMT. “It’s been a while since I’ve been active in the scene, so it’s nice to be back in action once more.”
The 56-year-old said he had been introduced to Artas by one of his students. Having dabbled in the arts for the past 20 years, it was an opportunity he could not pass on.
“Galleries like Artas are institutions that contribute to the development of the arts. If not for them, artists like me would have gone nowhere,” he added.
Also present at the show was art collector Azim Mokhtar, who said the exhibition was “a good mix of different art styles and different expressions”.
“It is a good representation of what Artas has been trying to achieve for the past three years; not just a singular theme but a collective of different ideas and works that Artas tries to promote,” he said.
Art collector Izzy Ani Arope shared similar sentiments. “Artas is pushing forward a lot of emerging artists. That is its specialty,” he said.
“Despite being a relatively young gallery, the works it has pushed have done very well, which is impressive. It’s a wonderful platform for discovering young artists.”
Finally, Artas founder Roy Ng expressed gratitude to those who have supported the gallery and made it a success over the years.
“They have made this journey so much more meaningful,” he said. “I’m thankful for all the experiences I have gained from every one of my customers and friends.”
Ng concluded with a promise to keep playing his part in developing the local art community, and also hopes Artas Galeri will be able to represent local artists at international showings in the near future.
The artworks will be on display until May 20. For more information, check out Artas Galeri’s website, as well as Facebook and Instagram profiles.
Artas Galeri
36, Jalan PJU 5/20D,
Kota Damansara,
Petaling Jaya, Selangor