KUCHING: It is high time Sarawak establishes its own state art gallery to transform the local art scene and take the art industry to the next level.
Sarawak Artists Society (SAS) President David Chew in welcoming the recently proposed state art gallery in Kuching, said in fact this was a ‘long overdue’ idea as it was raised many times in the past decades.
Speaking to New Sarawak Tribune, the artist said an art gallery plays a crucial role in linking artists and collectors, scouting for new talents while providing a platform for the creative minds to showcase their masterpieces.
“The discussion about this (gallery) has been brought up numerous times since I joined SAS back in 1999, so it is something long overdue.
“Thus, it is really motivating to hear that the government has made the move to manifest a state art gallery in Kuching.
“Hopefully we can witness it very soon, within a year or two,” he said.
Chew said the art gallery will also contribute in educating the public and visitors about the rich culture and diversity of the multiracial society in Sarawak, just like any developed countries’ national art galleries.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah had recently said that the old Government Printing Office opposite Central Police Station here, will be transformed into a state art gallery, showcasing the masterpieces of the local artists in Sarawak.
Built in 1908 it was extensively renovated in 1951 to house the then newly-formed Kuching Municipal Council (KMC) and when the council moved to its new premises at Jalan Padungan, it served as the Kuching Resident’s Office until 2014.
Since the building is a heritage site, Abdul Karim said some renovation work needs to be done such as reinforcing the floors, and it is estimated that it will take about a year and a half to establish the art gallery.
The minister also said he had requested the building from the state government due to its strategic location, within walking distance to several tourist attractions, namely Borneo Cultures Museum, Natural History Museum, and Maritime Museum, among others.
Abdul Karim said his ministry will engage with SAS and those involved in the art fraternity on how to manage the art gallery, especially on showcasing the artworks, who and what to be featured in the gallery.
Chew described it as ‘a very sensible approach’ to allow the experts to manage the art gallery as it will not be an easy task.
It requires knowledge, understanding about the industry as well as how to manage the artists, he said.
According to him, more attention has been given to the art industry in recent years especially after the Covid-19 pandemic whereas in the past, most of the art-related activities were organised by the artists themselves or through some art associations.
“In the last two years, we can see that there were more art events, allowing some new faces as well as those who have been painting for years and decades but who never had any chance to showcase their artwork – to have a platform to promote themselves.
“We are glad that SAS is also receiving more support and attention from the private and public sectors which is something positive and we hope this will create more opportunities for our artists,” he added.
Chew said SAS is ready and open to collaborate with the Sarawak government in this meaningful project – to establish the first state art gallery which will contribute to the creative economy, socio-economy and tourism.
Meanwhile, SAS vice president Gerald Goh agreed that Sarawak should have a state art gallery, especially with its rich cultural diversity of various ethnic groups as art is not just a way for individuals to express themselves but also a product of culture.
“I believe we do not lack talents or creative minds, but we really need a platform to nurture more artists, promote their work, and expose them to the public, collectors, media, and cultural institutions,” he said.
Apart from that, he said, there is an increase in art appreciation and creation among the local community in recent years, due to the hard work of various handicraft, art and souvenir-related organisations – in their efforts to promote, educate and even organise various events and activities around the town.
And because of this, many young people have ventured into the art industry with parents encouraging their children to love and create art.
Thus, he believed it is timely for Sarawak to set up its own art gallery.
Goh said he had also paid a visit to the Singapore Art Museum, to learn about the concept and layout including its exhibition space, facilities and how to link or connect to the other attractions nearby.
“We are very serious about this as we really hope the state art museum will materialise soon. With the support of the Sarawak government, we know that we can electrify the local art scene,” he added.
A lifelong nature lover and a painter Ng Paik San, who also shared a similar sentiment, said it would be good if the Sarawak government could look into having a state art gallery here for the artists to showcase their works.
“As an artist, drawing is always my great pleasure and I love featuring flora and fauna, creating artworks through colours and texture, which does require an innovative mindset.
“I started as a hobby as I have really loved painting since young. But, I think most artists also wish to have a place and platform to show our artworks, as well as to share our ideas and thoughts,” she said.
Another creative artist, Nurizzati Syafiqah, 25, who started creating arts during the pandemic, said she promotes and showcases her artworks online as well as offline (through exhibition).
“Although showcasing online allows me to connect with people around the world, to exchange knowledge and ideas, I believe displaying our artworks physically at an exhibition or art gallery still works the best.
“Only then the visitors or art lovers can have a closer dive into my artworks with their own eyes, to admire deeply,” she added.
