ART enthusiasts are in for a treat at the Penang State Art Gallery, where the Penang Art Open Exhibition 2024 is currently underway from Feb 22 to April 13.
Themed ‘Ruang’ or ‘Space’, this special showcase brings together a diverse group of talented young artists, featuring approximately 35 unique pieces that explore various interpretations of space.
The exhibition spans multiple formats, including 2D and 3D artworks, photography, and new media, offering visitors a rich and thought-provoking artistic experience.
Speaking at the prize-giving ceremony of the Penang Art Open Exhibition Competition 2024 today, Penang State Art Gallery Committee chairman Lee Khai emphasised the depth and creativity displayed by the participating artists.
“The theme ‘Space’ reflects the freedom of expression and the vast interpretations that exist within the visual arts realm,” he said.
He also reaffirmed the gallery’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent, particularly young artists, while solidifying Penang’s reputation as a premier hub for visual arts in the region.
“We believe that competitions like this not only encourage creativity but also serve as an important platform for artists to introduce their works to a wider audience,” he added during the ceremony, held at the Penang State Art Gallery in George Town.
Also in attendance were Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid, Penang Museum and Art Gallery director Haryany Mohamad, and Penang Art Open Exhibition Competition 2024 head juror Alizam Hasan.
Syerleena congratulated all the winners and commended the Penang State Art Gallery for organising the competition.
“Winners not only receive prize money but also have their artworks included as part of the Penang State Art Gallery’s permanent collection. This is a significant recognition for them,” she noted.
The prestigious Overall Award went to Rahmi Bujang for his artwork, ‘Sebuah cerita… Ruang Jiwa: Menyucikan dan Menyatukan’.
As the grand prize winner, Rahmi received RM15,000 in prize money, a certificate of participation, an opportunity to hold a solo exhibition at the Penang State Art Gallery and permanent inclusion of his artwork in the gallery’s collection.
In addition to the overall winner, the competition also recognised outstanding works in different categories:
– 2D Category Winner: Safrizal Shahir – “From Time to Time: Absurdity and Opportunities”
– New Media Category Winner: Muhd Azri Izzuddin Mahyuddin – “ke[diAM]AN“
– Photography Category Winner: Khor Sek Min – “The Mathematicians’ Dual Training Grounds”
– 3D Category Winner: Ibrahim Don – “Pendinding”
Each of these category winners received RM3,000 in prize money, a certificate of participation, and permanent inclusion of their artwork in the Penang State Art Gallery collection.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud