KUCHING: Yesterday, two stalls which sold beautiful hand painted artwork caught the attention of many people during the Sarawak Society for the Deaf’s (SSD) annual Charity Food Fair held at the Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) premises at Jalan Stampin here.
What was interesting is that the two amazing artists from Kuching are deaf.
One of them, 31-year-old Derik Siu Eng Hung, is famous for his artwork which portrays the cultural diversity of Sarawak.
He was a graphic designer and animation student at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology and has learned fine arts under the guidance of Sarawakian artist and sculptor Petrus Alfred.
Siu, a member of the Sarawak Artists Society (SAS), normally uses acrylic paint on canvas or paints on tree bark materials.
A big fan of Japanese anime and video games, he is constantly practising and seeking improvement in digital art as well.
Siu’s mother, Nelly Lim is happy her son can paint so well.
“This is what he loves doing, he paints almost every day,” said the cheerful mother.
Lim said her son loved to draw ever since he was young and would carry a crayon around when he was about three to four years old.
“His art skills grew better as he entered university and after graduating, he is now actively painting and would sometimes draw Japanese-inspired animation on his graphics tablet too,” she said.
Those interested in Siu’s artwork may contact his mother at 013-8108071.
The other artist is Winnie Chin, 39, a member of the SSD. She has also developed a deep interest in art and draws during her free time; it will take her an hour to finish a piece. She uses crayons and oil pastels for her abstract and expressive paintings.
Chin also has a good command of English and can write proficiently in the language.
According to Sarah Supahan, 18, a volunteer from Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, whenever SSD organises any charity events, Chin will sell her artwork for charitable purposes and not make any profit for herself.
“She normally buys basic painting materials herself at a nearby stationary store in Hui Sing,” added Sarah.
Those who want to know more about SSD or contribute donations may WhatsApp the society at 012-8118260.
