TAKING a cue from being among the first states in Malaysia to incorporate art works such as street wall murals until it became a landmark tourism feature here, Penang is now working towards becoming the art capital of the country.
If Kuala Lumpur used to be the haven for art connoisseurs, Penang is now fast catching up, particularly in art works which have commercial potential, while also providing value to the list of things to do in the state's tourism calendar.
Penang executive councillor Yeoh Soon Hin, who oversees tourism, believes the state can build on its reputation as a place for art by ensuring that it is wired up with more art works, display platforms, and places to unwind while indulging in creative works.
"Yes, Penang can be the capital for art in the country," said Yeoh.
He wants to invite artists from all over the country and world to make Penang their adoptive home to sell their wares and share their skills.
In return, their attractions will debut as a never-ending cycle of new paintings and designs to adorn the state, including in areas such as murals and container arts.
“This is why we stand out as a unique state when compared to other states. Penang warmly welcomes the artists to choose this state as your preferred location to showcase your amazing works of art,” Yeoh said.
Penang is also home to several private museums of arts with a few entrepreneurs here having their own acclaimed private collections.
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But for Yeoh, it is not just the platforms which are needed to display the works. He wants more events and activities lined up to promote the world of art.
State Museum and Art Gallery director Haryany Mohamad nodded that it was possible, citing that to her mind, there have been support from the private sector but more can be done to promote and market it.
State art gallery chairman Lee Khai expressed hope that more attention cane be done towards marketing and art events would become a monthly affair rather than just seasonal.
Some artists whose views were sought, replied that the state also needs to provide incentives for their peers to come over and "paint the town red," as they say.
Ismail Yaakop, who moonlights as a ride sharing rider, while trying to fulfil his dream of selling his water-coloured paintings, said that the authorities can offer tax rebates and other forms of incentives to help artists earn a decent living from their paintings.
Corporates, which are growing in Penang should also be roped in, he said.
For now, the state art gallery in collaboration with the National Art Gallery is showcasing the artworks of six young artists, who are taking part in the National Art Gallery's Bakat Muda Sezaman (BMS) or Young Contemporaries Award 2021.
The event was moved to this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
It is being held with the theme of 'Triumph Emerging Artists' – Penang BMS2021 Finalist Exhibition.
The visual arts contest has its exhibits featured in the gallery and all over the Dewan Sri Pinang area until April 30.
BMS is an initiative organised by the National Art Gallery twice a year for all Malaysians aged 35 and below. From 109 participants, the finalists were narrowed down to six budding artists, who have displayed their creations here.
Haryany said the exhibition is open to the public during its operating days and hours (Monday to Sunday from 9am to 5pm). It is closed on Fridays.
The six artists are Sumay Cheah, Rahmi Bujang, Isabel Thong Kai Yun, Jeslyn Ooi, Thanesh Kichi and Lee Lin Chee.
During an interview, they gave a big thumbs up to Penang's efforts to become this referral centre for arts. Some of them like Rahmi and Thanesh came from other states, but they appreciate what Penang is doing to market their creations.
Many of the creations are also inspired by Penang's reputation as a leading haven for street food. – The Vibes, March 26, 2022
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