KUCHING: In a transformative surge, Sarawak’s art industry emerges as a dynamic force, challenging stereotypes of a leisurely pace.
Contrary to traditional perceptions, Sarawak’s art scene is experiencing a notable boom, providing an array of opportunities for aspiring talents in multimedia and graphic design.
Insights from those on the ground reveal a rich landscape of creativity, surpassing the stereotypes associated with a perceived slow-paced environment.
Despite acknowledging the challenges inherent in navigating this vibrant industry, there is a prevailing sense of excitement and enthusiasm among Sarawak’s aspiring artists.
The consensus is that while success may be hard-earned, the journey promises to be both challenging and enjoyable, with the potential to elevate the local art scene and generate broader awareness.
During the GradX event, short for ‘Graduate Final Year Exhibition’ at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus today (Dec 15), New Sarawak Tribune had a chance to explore the creative showcases of the final-year students from Multimedia Design, Graphic Design and Management, and Digital Media.
Nicholas Huang, a final-semester multimedia design student and his team are concluding their academic journey with an innovative project.
Focusing on interactive video and gaming, the project explores the concept of origami, inspired by a touching story of a mother’s origami creations for her son.
The 22-year-old student, who transitioned from engineering to multimedia design, is excited to step into working life.
He also highlighted the thriving arts and media industry in Sarawak.
“The arts in the media industry in Sarawak are definitely booming. Despite the perception of Sarawak as a slow-paced state, I see the industry thriving, offering numerous opportunities to multimedia and graphic design students.
“I faced backlash from peers and parents, especially the older generations, who bluntly believed there was no future in this industry. Contrary to that, there are ample opportunities; one just needs to be smart in finding the right path,” he said.
As graduation approaches, he encourages others to explore opportunities in the creative field, emphasising the industry’s potential for those with imaginative minds.
“There’s a lot of opportunities out there, and my message to others considering this field is that the arts and media industry in Sarawak is robust.
“The design industry is not bad; it’s very suitable for those with creative minds. You can design whatever you think of.
“Don’t worry about the lack of opportunities in Malaysia, especially in Sarawak; there are actually a lot of opportunities. Lecturers in Swinburne also help students a lot in connecting us with key industries,” said Huang.
On the same note, graphic design student Ng Jing Wen, known as Rachel, is channelling her creativity into a packaging project for her client.
With a focus on a warm Christmas concept, Rachel is enthusiastic about her final semester next year and looks forward to graduating.
Hailing from Sabah, the 22-year-old contrasts the art industry in Sarawak favourably.
She noted that while Sabah leans towards business, Kuching offers a wide array of opportunities in the design field, encompassing both media and graphic design.
Unlike some who face scepticism, Rachel experienced unwavering support from friends and family in her pursuit of graphic design.
“My friends and family supported me because I started my journey to draw and design when I was a kid. So everyone knows that,” she said.
Offering encouragement to those considering a path in the arts, Rachel keeps it simple, saying, “It is fun and interesting to study.”
Meanwhile, another graphic design student, Elaine Yeo Yi Lian, 23, who will graduate this semester, takes on an important branding project for Petmily, an online pet store.
Crafting a playful and cute concept, she designs a logo, merchandise, business card, and branding guidelines.
Additionally, she helped to design a campaign addressing pet abandonment for an upcoming adoption week.
Observing the local art scene, she noted an improvement in exhibitions in Sarawak, with events like Saradise and Canaan Square gaining traction.
She suggested that the government support more art and design exhibitions.
“Compared to West Malaysia and other countries, we don’t have many art exhibitions like this.
“But we’re improving, with more vendors and events like in Saradise and Canaan Square. It’s getting better.
“Maybe the government can help to do more exhibitions—art and design exhibitions out there,” she told New Sarawak Tribune.
As such, she expressed gratitude for her parents’ unwavering support throughout her graphic design journey, emphasising that studying art is both enjoyable and worth pursuing.
Her advice to aspiring artists is simple: “Just go for it. Just try. If not, you’ll never know.”
Another multimedia design student, Daniel Farhan, is excited about his project, ARWHEEL.
Daniel and his team are aiming to bring Malaysian car culture into the augmented reality (AR) world.
Despite challenges in Sarawak’s art industry, he hoped that his work elevates awareness.
“Succeeding in the Sarawak art industry can be quite a challenge, but it’s still fun to explore. Given Sarawak’s growing industry in arts and media, I hope our efforts can contribute to more elevation and awareness,” he said.
Facing initial backlash from family for deviating from traditional professions, he persisted, emphasising the uniqueness of his craft.
“When I studied this, I did get backlash from friends and family because it doesn’t lead to the usual professions like doctors and lawyers.
“However, I proceeded because it allows me to become more than what a typical job offers.
“I created more arts to show them; this is not something everyone can do, not even a doctor or lawyer. It is very personal, like a journal,” he said.
Encouraging others, 21-year-old Daniel said, “Just do it. Don’t listen to others. If you feel this is something you want to pursue, go ahead because it will be fun.”
