Suma Orientalis Fine Art in Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur, presents “The Holiday Show”, an exhibition showcasing nine artists, predominantly Malaysians, whose works not only invite viewers to reflect on the year but also offer powerful social commentary.
Speaking with FMT Lifestyle, curator Sophia Shung explained that she wished to convey “a message of hope and harmony as we approach the end of the year” through a sharing of perspectives by young emerging talents.
To that end, the artists come from diverse backgrounds and disciplines but are unified by their shared experience of belonging to the “internet era”, Shung added.
Among them is Malaysian Zharfan Rashidi, whose artwork “Bonda” is inspired by his memories of having grown up in Kedah.
“My piece immortalises the sweet memories of my mother, who passed away this year,” he shared. “It represents a figure of warmth, love and care in the family, and reminds us of being kind to people in a tough world.”
Fellow artist YONGL immerses himself in the digital realm, using various programs to create visuals that speak to everyday Malaysians.
His work uses a photo-montage technique to provide a fresh and surreal perspective on pressing environmental issues, inviting viewers to be more aware of their natural surroundings.
“I visualised the devastating impacts caused by extensive quarrying activities on the mountains of Kinta Valley, Perak. Everyday actions like eating are projected on an immense scale, where rock beds and trees turn into fine foods ready for the serving.”
Elsewhere, Indonesian artist Jane Stephanny’s creations stand out thanks to her Zen philosophy of “wabi-sabi”: to find beauty in imperfection.
Her preferred mediums of gouache (a form of watercolour), acrylic, and printmaking allow her to explore the peculiarities of the human condition.
“The characters in my pieces are flawed, not afraid to show the ugly side of their aesthetics and behaviour,” she explained. “Being flawed is what makes them human.”
Malaysian artist Wong Xiang Yi, meanwhile, draws inspiration from Japanese manga, bringing a dynamic energy to her piece “Fig.”
“The fig tree is symbolically known to be a very resilient fruit tree and existed for millions of years ago during the dinosaur era,” she noted.
Her message? “As we encounter various challenges in our lives, it is imperative we overcome them with a spirit of resilience.”
Her ink paintings, blending traditional Ling-nan and Japanese Nihonga styles, create a visually striking narrative that incorporates a fusion of cultural influences.
Other artists featured in the exhibition are Azrul Azrai Mohyi, Lith Ng, Louise Low, Oli, and Tan Choon Ting.
‘The Holiday Show’ runs until this Saturday (Dec 23).
Suma Orientalis Fine Art
The Five @ KPD,
1, Level 3A, Block B,
Jalan Dungun, Damansara Heights,
50490 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 10.30am-6.30pm
Learn more about Suma Orientalis Fine Art via its website and Facebook profile.