KOTA KINABALU – Around 26 graffiti artists, including some big names from Thailand, the United States, Korea, Vietnam and Japan, will converge in Sabah next month for a community art collaboration titled “Street Strokes.”
The collaborative art project, believed to be the first of its kind organised in Sabah, is put together by local graffiti writer Cracko, or Crig Francism who is the founder of the Cracko Art Group.
The project also received support from Kota Kinabalu City Hall and a backpacker hostel operator, H2Traveler.
Names such as Suiko from Japan, Profet from Australia, Mauy from Thailand, Trip 63 from the Philippines, Boon Baked from Singapore, Dittymow from the United States, Dhal from Korea, LiarBen from Vietnam and Madnycer from Brunei had so far confirmed to be part of the art project, which will take place at Kampung Air in town.
Several local writers such as Aks Kwan, Escape VA, Adam Jamal, Snaketwo, Sliz, and Phey are also among the tapestry of talents that would be involved in the two-day art project.
“The graffiti artists from other countries will arrive in the city on October 18, taking the time to acquaint themselves with the city, before immersing themselves into the art project for two days from October 20 to 22,” said Cracko.
Preparation of the wall will commence in the first week of October, according to Cracko, adding that the art project would be able to spruce up the Kampung Air here area once completed.
“The inception for this project lies in the pursuit of beautifying Kota Kinabalu city, setting a renaissance for the image of Kampung Air, which has been overshadowed with undeserved misconceptions such as crimes and vice.
“It is also an opportunity for cultural exchange, ushering in artists from diverse corners of the globe, fostering the interplay of ideas and cultures,” he said.
More details on the Street Strokes art collaboration can be found on the Street Strokes Instagram page. – The Vibes, September 23, 2023
