However, one exhibition is trying to change that perception, bringing affordable art to the masses while giving local artists a chance to shine.
Open to the public until Nov 19, 1 Utama’s Ledge Gallery is hosting “A Journey Through Colours: Unpacking the Bold and the Beautiful”, by PurpleHouz Fine Arts.
PurpleHouz director Bheeshma Jeyasingam told FMT Lifestyle he hopes that the exhibition will get young Malaysians interested in the local art scene.
“Once we’ve gotten their attention, we can educate them on what the whole art industry is all about,” he said.
The exhibition features artworks from 38 Malaysia-based artists, most of them locals, some already famous, others first-timers.
Siva Nair
Siva Nair is living proof that you’re never too old to pick up new skills.
An advertising copywriter since 1973, his work kept him busy with little time to paint, a talent he had since his school days.
It was only decades later, after retirement, that he turned to art again. “I didn’t have anything to do, so I was thinking that I should go back to my art again.”
The Covid-19 lockdowns were a blessing in disguise. “Instead of watching TV and wasting time, I decided to spend my time painting,” said Siva.
His early paintings drew lots of online attention, with many enquiring if they were for sale. “So, I decided to go full-time on this!”
Siva’s work is photorealistic, often depicting scenes of Perak’s nature and heritage. He is also well-known for his koi fish paintings, with some calling him “the Indian koi master”.
“At 74, I’m beginning my art career. Even though there’s a long way to go, I will manage and hopefully I will be well-known in the near future.”
Aminah Abdul Rahman
Famed for her watercolours, the 61-year-old Aminah Abdul Rahman is a grand old dame in the art scene. Art is her passion and it has opened many doors for her.
Wife of the late maestro Khalil Ibrahim, Aminah has received multiple awards for her art, with her works hung on the walls of many a CEO’s office.
On display at the exhibition are two of her floral-themed works, “Cinta Sejati I” and “Cinta Sejati II”, both watercolours.
While she can depict just about anything, she is drawn to natural subjects. “Nowadays, I focus on flowers.” Both “Cinta Sejati” paintings depict orchids in full bloom.
“Watercolours are interesting to work with as there are so many techniques that you can approach it with,” she said. “The patience you need for working with watercolours is a good challenge for me.”
Voon Kim Cheong
At 55, artist Voon Kim Cheong has dedicated over 30 years of his life to the arts. Not only is he an accomplished painter, he also loves music.
Taking cues from music, most of his works are brilliantly coloured, which for him represent vibrant energy among other things.
“Move On” is an example of this, with the painting featuring a deer charging ahead with the sun high in the sky.
“I use simplified forms,” he explained of his semi-abstract style. “Then, I use textures to bring out movement and the flow of energy.”
He said he was most inspired by traditional and live performances. And many of his artworks are actually insights into Malaysian stage culture.
Hafizuddin Mat Yashim
The works of UiTM graduate, Hafizuddin Mat Yashim, 28, from Terengganu, are distinctly colourful and include elements of pop culture.
“Hang On Guys, We Will Be There”, may remind anime lovers of Hayao Miyazaki’s film “Howl’s Moving Castle” for obvious reasons.
He said that even in school, his love for art meant he threw himself into any art competition that popped up.
“My style takes inspiration from comics and sci-fi,” he told FMT Lifestyle. “I would say I am inspired by Japanese art styles as well.”
He is particularly fond of including elements of steampunk in his work. Steampunk is a sci-fi genre focusing on steam-powered technology.
“I have been in love with art since childhood,” he said. “And if I ever left the field, I am not really sure what to do with myself. It matters that much to me.”
The Ledge Art Gallery
3rd Floor, 3F High Street
1 Utama Shopping Centre
1 Lebuh Bandar Utama
Bandar Utama
47800 Petaling Jaya
Selangor