An Introduction to Contemporary Art in Malaysia

Part I: The Malaysian Art Scene: Art Practice in Context
Tuesday, 31 March, 6.30pm

This first part of the series takes a look at the different forces that have shaped contemporary art practice in Malaysia. This includes the development of our art history, and art market, education and infrastructure. It also reflects on why local contemporary art is relevant and interesting to our experience in the many forms it takes, and touches on the regional and international context Malaysian artists operate within.

Part II: Painters, Sculptors
Tuesday, 14 April, 6.30pm

Contemporary art in Malaysia encompasses a wide variety of approaches. Two major traditions continue to thrive, however. Painting remains the most popular medium for Malaysian artists, who have contributed in their own way to the wider development of this international artistic language.

Part II takes a look at a Malaysian kaleidoscope of painterly visions, from modern masters still working today to exciting young painters who are becoming all the rage, from formal abstraction to social narrative. It also explores contemporary Malaysian sculpture, whose power is often rooted in local forms, craftmaking and materials, and our cultural heritage.

Part III: Breaking New Ground
Tuesday, 28 April, 6.30pm

For many younger artists, and for a new generation of viewers, contemporary experience is most clearly expressed in the language of the visual and other sensory media that surrounds us. At the same time, global developments in art and technology have opened up new expressive possibilities for local artists. Part III introduces some of the innovators working with 'alternative media', and the processes and ideas behind art works which involve installation, performance, found objects, text, sound, video, photography, digital technology and more. A related phenomenon is a rising interest in interactive public art, with artists and artist-groups exploring ways for art to involve the viewer and the community at large, finding support from public and private institutions

Admission is Free and open to all. Limited Participants per Workshop so please call 03 2051 1228 (Rofiah) or 03 2051 7717 (Juaini) to secure your place.
www.galeripetronas.com.my