Curated by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic, “Culture Shock” brings a slice of Penang’s vibrant art scene to Kuala Lumpur, with whimsical collaborations, introspective installations and playful artworks all on display.
“I feel Penang and KL artists live very different lives. So I thought I’d bring some Penang artists to KL, and show the local artists here what we do in Penang, for a bit of ‘culture shock.’ I want to see how the people here react,” Zacharevic told FMT Lifestyle.
Founded by Zacharevic and his wife, artist Sheena Liam, Cultprint started off as a printing studio in Georgetown, Penang, and later blossomed into an artistic hub for the local community. It is now a thriving gallery space known for its artist residency programme.
It’s exhibition “Culture Shock” features artwork from Azmi Hussin, Bibichun, Bono Stellar, Cloakwork, Ernest Zacharevic, Isaac Cordal, Kenji Chai, Low Chee Peng, Martha Cooper, Sam Lo, Sheena Liam, Sliz, TAZONE, Teebai, Trina Teoh and Yok & Sheryo.
Sticking to its theme of “clash,” the exhibition’s ground floor features vibrant, playful artworks and whimsical collaborations, while the exhibits on its upper floor are more meditative in tone.
Enter the exhibition (located within the former Czip+ by Cziplee stationery store here) and be prepared for a diverse showcase of local talent and artistic vision.
Graffiti artist Kenji Chai joins forces with illustrator and caricaturist Azmi Hussin for the “Great Escape,” a large and vibrant cartoonish artwork that will probably appeal to everyone’s inner child.
Kuala Terengganu-born artist Bono Stellar contributes two iridescent artworks, “Quantum 1” and “Quantum 2,” influenced by theories of quantum physics and infinite realities.
“Quantum 2 explores alignment. In quantum physics, it’s important to have your brain and heart in coherence, to be symmetrical, like in the piece. That makes it easier to manifest all the things you want in life,” Bono explained.
Also check out multidisciplinary artist Bibichun’s “Dilalang Merokok dan Rasuah” (2023): this pun-titled artwork features a man and a law enforcement officer jointly involved in illicit affairs within a grassy plain. It’s an amusing piece, which raises questions of ethics and moral complicity.
Graffiti artist Sliz’s ‘Non Hic Non Modo’ (2023) juxtaposes two powerful images: a mushroom cloud and a fetus developing in the womb. Both depicted in vivid hues and similar styles, the work encourages viewers to contemplate the connection between creation and destruction.
Many well-known Zacharevic pieces, such as “A Man Amongst Dragon” and “Horsing Around” can be admired during the exhibition: do check out his new work “Imaginary Friend” (2024).
“Two Perspectives No 2” (2023) also showcases Zacharevic’s more sombre side: the work depicts a damaged city, alongside parents and children, and evokes real-life issues like the invasion of Gaza.
“Culture Shock” is also a good opportunity to see Liam’s hand embroidery-based artwork: this is only the second or third time her works such as “Borders” have been exhibited in Malaysia.
The artist added that “Culture Shock” was an excellent place to discover new artists while having a great time.
“There are over 50 artworks by 16 amazing local artists here,” Liam said enthusiastically. “There are some amazing, unexpected collaborations by artists you wouldn’t think of even being in the same room. And we’re all here, having fun. So come and have fun with us!”
For more information, visit Cultprint’s website. Or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Culture Shock (until Jan 12, 2025)
3, Jalan Telawi 3,
Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 11am–6pm (Wednesdays-Sundays)