The stage is set for the inaugural Miri Arts Festival, a showcase of talent and community bringing together artists from all over the globe. The four-day event will celebrate various forms of creative expression, including the visual arts, painting, sculptures, installations, murals and digital art.
According to communications director Zul BabaNoor, Miri is the perfect location for an arts festival. “The city harmoniously assimilates diverse cultures, traditions, customs, beliefs and lifestyles,” he told FMT Lifestyle.
“Its historical background as the birthplace of the Malaysian oil industry, and its strategic location in the heart of Borneo have resulted in a diverse mix of creative influences inherited naturally by the people here.”
Highlights include the staging of an art gallery at the Pullman Miri Waterfront, with works by artists such as Nadia Alsagoff (Norway), Anaz K (Kuala Lumpur), Megan Lee (Amsterdam), Tiz Zaqyah (KL), Tulika Prakash (India), and Habsah Abang Saufi (Sarawak).
There will also be a showcase of visual art, painting, sculpture, fashion and installations by Julia Volchkova (Russia), Datin Norehan (KL), Tom Abang Saufi (Sarawak), and Wan Bynun (Sarawak).
Plus, look out for the first-ever Miri mixed-reality digital art experience from Sarawakian artist MahsuriShark.
Zul further recommends that guests visit the art market, where they can get up close and personal with featured artists, listen to buskers and street performers, and enjoy culinary art.
For those interested in mental wellness, a talk titled “The Role of Art in Mental Health” will feature former health ministry director-general and chairman of the USCI Health group Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, alongside Hospital Miri psychiatrist Dr Ravivarma Rao Panirselvam, and Unimas psychiatrist and lecturer Dr Amanda Albert.
The festivities culminate on Aug 3 with the luminous Festival Gala Evening. Guests can enjoy performances by legendary local singer Anuar Zain, standup comedian Douglas Lim, violinist Nisa Addin, and artist MahsuriShark.
“Attendees can expect to be captivated by the diverse array of artworks on display. I hope they engage with artists and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of contemporary art from around the world,” Zul added.
Among the featured artists is M Sahzy, a Bornean who lives in Kuching. Sahzy, who is half-Malay, half Iban, will be showcasing a collection of sculptures made of reclaimed ironwood (kayu belian) that tell stories of wildlife and folklore in Borneo.
“Having a festival here is awesome,” the 28-year-old told FMT Lifestyle. “Such a festival does not only celebrate artistry but also showcases Sarawakian artists. And to me, Miri is not only rich in natural beauty but also in cultural heritage.
“I hope guests will gain a deeper appreciation for art, culture, and the environment, and that the festival sparks meaningful conversations and encourages positive actions towards art,” he concluded.
Where:
Pullman Miri Waterfront & Miri Times Square,
Miri, Sarawak
For more information about the Miri Arts Festival, visit its website as well as Facebook and Instagram profiles.