Multiculturism

                                                By: Faizal Sidik

The "Multiculturism" exhibition presents a fascinating convergence of eight artists, each sharing a common background in art education and careers as lecturers, former lecturers, educators, and visual art trainers. This gathering includes notable figures such as Dr. Zakaria Ali, Felicia Loh, Dr. Hanif Khairi, Abby Zain, Ellie Ng, Jaja Yusof, Alex Liong, and Zarina Abdullah. Together, they explore the concept of art as a vehicle for unity, compromise, and collective harmony.

Zakaria Ali (b.1946)

Zakaria Ali is a distinguished name in Malaysian art. As a former lecturer in art history at Universiti Sains Malaysia since the 1970s, he has greatly contributed to the academic and artistic community. Known for his figurative paintings and writings on pluralism, Zakaria has famously likened Malaysian art to "air batu campur," a popular local dessert known for its diverse mix of ingredients. His work in this exhibition continues this metaphor, presenting figurative paintings that capture daily life and personal rituals in his home and studio in Diamond Creeks, Tanjung Malim. To Zakaria, multiculturalism transcends racial and ethnic boundaries, encompassing the entirety of our lived experiences.

Felicia Loh (b.1975)

From Johor Bharu, Felicia Loh is both an artist and an art trainer who founded Napthtali 7 Art. Her journey, interrupted by familial expectations and a career in banking, now finds fulfillment in her true passion—art. In this exhibition, Felicia presents works that embody Malaysian patriotism, not just through national symbols but through abstract interpretations. Her pieces, including the "Tanah Malaysia" and "Fresh Out Pouring" series, offer a bird’s-eye view of Malaysia’s lush landscapes, reflecting a deep appreciation for the nation's natural and cultural richness.

Jaja Yusoff (b.1983)

Born in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Jaja Yusoff is the daughter of the renowned artist Yusof Gajah. Following in her father's artistic footsteps, Jaja’s work focuses on painting cats, symbolizing joy and freedom. Her depiction of black cats evokes a sense of harmony and multiculturalism akin to Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara’s use of child figures. Through her art, Jaja reflects on the unity and diversity of Malaysian society.

Ellie Ng (b.1978)

Ellie Ng, hailing from Batu Gajah, Perak, has a background in fashion and textiles from the Malaysia Institute of Art (MIA). After a successful career in the Klang Valley, she returned to her roots in Papan, Perak. Ellie’s studio and workshop are deeply connected to local flora and heritage. Her works in this exhibition, including textured paintings on seeds, symbolize the essential elements of life—food, medicine, and economic resources. For Ellie, multiculturalism is intricately linked to the nation’s growth and sustainability.

Dr. Hanif Khairi (b.1972)

Dr. Hanif Khairi, from Setiawan, Perak, has a background in Metal Design from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UITM). As a Senior Lecturer in Contemporary Metal Design at UITM Shah Alam, Dr. Hanif’s work consistently integrates themes of sustainability and environmental stewardship. His "Tunas Cinta" series showcases sculptures made from recycled wood and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, reflecting a commitment to both artistic innovation and ecological responsibility.

Abby Zain (b.1965)

Abby Zain, originally from Batu Gajah, studied Visual Communication and Design at the Academy of Arts, Culture, and Heritage (ASWARA). With a career that includes book illustration and children’s art education, Abby’s paintings in this exhibition combine motifs from Malaysia’s major ethnic groups—Malay, Chinese, and Indian. Her works, inspired by traditional Perak tekat designs, use segmentation and patterns to reflect unity, harmony, and cultural richness.

Alex Liong (b.1973)

Alex Liong Chen Hui, from Kuala Lumpur, began his artistic journey in school and later pursued Graphic Design at the Malaysia Institute of Art (MIA). With nearly 30 years of experience, Alex’s work explores themes of nature and heritage using rubber clay. In this exhibition, he draws on the rich history and culture of Melaka, presenting works that celebrate the Baba and Nyonya heritage through his distinctive medium.

Zarina Abdullah (b.1981)

Zarina Abdullah, from Ipoh, Perak, and raised in Pahang and Terengganu, holds a Fine Arts degree in painting from Universiti Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam. Her career, marked by early success and solo exhibitions, focuses on figurative painting. In this exhibition, Zarina uses flowers, specifically bougainvillea, to symbolize love and familial connections. Her series, including "Tanda Shayang," "Bunga Jingga," and "Bunga Merah Jambu," represents multiculturalism as a reflection of familial and cultural bonds.

As the curator, I invite you to experience this exhibition not merely as a presentation of artistic interpretations of Malaysia’s diversity but as a celebration of the unique harmony we enjoy. Let these works remind us to appreciate and sustain the rich tapestry of cultures that make our nation truly exceptional.