FOR the first time, an art exhibition featuring masterpieces by artists from four generations, young and old, will take place in Gurney Plaza from Oct 21 until Nov 3.
Titled On the Essence of Joy, the exhibition is organised by Yeow Chye Art Studio and will take place on the ground floor of the New Wing at Gurney Plaza. This marks the fifth edition of the exhibition since its inception in 2019.
Speaking to Buletin Mutiara about the exhibition, Cheng Yeow Chye, the studio’s teacher, expressed his delight that the annual event could continue uninterrupted, aside from a pause in 2022 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The exhibition has resumed since then and continues this year. We are immensely grateful to everyone who has supported us over the years, including former state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin, and the Gurney Plaza management,” said Cheng.
“This year’s exhibition will feature artworks from four generations, with artists ranging in age from just one-year-old to 92 years old. Visitors will have the chance to view pieces from various generations, gaining insights into the unique messages conveyed through these masterpieces.”
A total of 52 artists are involved, including notable names like Datuk Tan Chiang Kiong and Datuk Tay Mo-Leong. Tan, the oldest among the artists, is known for his exceptional works, which will be among the highlights of the exhibition.
The opening ceremony will take place on Oct 27 at 2pm. Among those expected to be present are Yeoh, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, state Art Gallery chairman Lee Khai, and Peter Chan will be present alongside.
More than 80 artworks will be displayed during the exhibition, and visitors will also be treated to various cultural performances.
Cheng underscored the importance of celebrating multiracial diversity, emphasising it as a step forward.
“In our previous exhibitions, people from all walks of life visited, and we deeply appreciate their support. This demonstrates that art has the power to connect everyone, regardless of race or religion,” he said, hoping for overwhelming support for this year’s event as well.
He fondly recalled a heart-wrenching moment from last year’s exhibition when a wheelchair-bound lady attended, showing the emotional impact that art can have.
Cheng also expressed his hopes that the students or any artists showcasing their work will be present at the exhibition to support and explain their masterpieces to visitors.
Lee Dior from the fourth generation of exhibitors started from the most primitive, with her little hands lightly dipped in paint, and her little feet stepped forward.
A painting by six-years-old Felicia Leow Chen Xi symbolises pure, harmonious and beautiful, showing the innocence and immaturity of children.
This year has been particularly significant for Yeow Chye Art Studio as they achieved global recognition by emerging as the top team in the 43rd Small Montmartre of Bitola 2024 in North Macedonia. Competing against 800 teams from 81 countries.
For this, Cheng paid tribute to his students for their hard work and hoped others would emulate their success.
The exhibition is open to the public during the mall’s opening hours, and admission is free.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting