Cover 'Watson's Ghost' (2021) by Heather Dewey-Hagborg (Photo courtesy of Wei-Ling Gallery)
'Watson's Ghost' (2021) by Heather Dewey-Hagborg (Photo courtesy of Wei-Ling Gallery)
1 / 1
From Alena Murang's first-ever art exhibition to filmmaker Tim Burton's collection, it's an exciting month in the local arts and culture scene
Arts and culture fans have plenty to look forward to this month. There is a wide range of works to suit every taste, a veritable spread to feed your soul. From Dr Heather Dewey-Hagborg's experiential works that explore the genetic makeup of humankind and the things that set us apart as individuals, to the contemplative paintings of Gan Siong King created during the 2020 lockdown, it truly showcases the vibrancy of the art community in Malaysia.
See also: A guide to Japan’s art islands—Naoshima, Teshima and Inujima
Read on to find out more about these ongoing and upcoming art exhibitions.
Closer Than Your Family
Closer Than Your Family is the latest exhibition by internationally renowned biohacker and information artist Dr Heather Dewey Hagborg and it invites its audience to take an introspective look at the human experience and consider where the line is drawn between animals and humans.
When: Now till April 18; Tue-Sat, 10am-6pm
Where: Wei Ling Gallery, 8, Jalan Scott, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur
Pictures of Things
Presenting a series of paintings both old and new in his latest solo exhibition, Gan Siong King drew inspiration from the sudden silence that ensued throughout the 2020 lockdown. Though seemingly simplistic at first glance, Gan's work contains contemplative depth between the numerous, neatly painted lines, representing the artist's exploration of a world increasingly saturated by the endless visual library of the internet.
When: Now till April 9; Wed-Sun, 12pm-6pm
Where: The Back Room, 80A, Jalan Rotan, Kampung Attap, 50460 Kuala Lumpur
The World of Tim Burton
If you're a fan of renowned filmmaker and animator Tim Burton, or a lover of all things uncanny and kooky, be sure to make a date with The World of Tim Burton at Pavilion Bukit Jalil.
Comprising over 500 of Burton's works ranging from paintings and drawings to photographs and videos, the exhibition documents his extensive career journey in five thematic sections.
Visitors can also expect some surprise teasers on Burton's ongoing projects as well as walk through an exact replica of his personal studio.
When: Now till July 30; Mon-Sun, 10am-10pm
Where: Pavilion Bukit Jalil, 2, Persiaran Jalil 8, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur
lift the tikar!
Featuring an array of collaborative works by Sabahan contemporary artist Yee I-Lann and the many craftspeople as well as the artists of Borneo, lift the tikar! is part of the Borneo Heart in Kuala Lumpur exhibition, which is co-produced by contemporary art specialists RogueArt and supported by international gallery Silverlens.
Presenting motifs and elements that represent the people of Borneo and their way of life, this exhibition is intended as a collective platform where ideas are shared and conversations are exchanged revolving around the beating hearts of Sabah's community.
While at Ilham Gallery, also check out award-winning Vietnamese artist Truong Cong Tung's work at level 5, which will run till May 14.
When: Now till June 18; Tue-Sat, 11am-7pm
Where: Ilham Gallery, Ilham Tower, 8, Lorong Binjai, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Colours of the Highlands
Alena Murang is presenting her first-ever solo art exhibition at the Hoan Gallery. The musician of the Kelabit Dayak tribe is exhibiting 49 never-before-seen artworks that rediscover and reclaim her Kelabit heritage. Alena has incorporated the swirling patterns called arit in the Kelabit language, which are commonly found carved into stone and wooden sculptures, in some of her paintings.
When: Now till April 30; Mon-Sun, 9.30am-6.30pm
Where: Hoan Gallery, HSL Tower, Lorong La Promenade 2, Kuching-Samarahan Expressway, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak
NOW READ
5 most beautiful McDonald’s in the world
Art Basel Hong Kong 2023: Tatler’s guide to the artists and works to look out for
Credits
Images: courtesy of Wei-Ling Galleries and The Back Room
Topics
Usually found at home and one with her couch, Koy Yi would either crack open a good book or game in her spare time to wind down after a long day. She also loves to scour art conventions and book fairs alike when she's able, collecting art books of all regions to gain inspiration for her own illustrations. With a keen interest in people and the stories they tell, she enjoys a good talk and a good laugh (preferably over food). Follow her on her Instagram @peiyi57.
