Unwind with a cuppa at Temu House or dive into a surrealist dream world at Ilham Gallery; whatever it is, art and relaxation go hand-in-hand this rainy season
From the delicate art of weaving to artistic collaborations with nature, local artists reflect upon their roots. Sarawakian artist Marcos Kueh satirises the commercialisation of Borneo through a series of vibrant textiles, whilst Sabahan artist-author Jennifer P. Linggi showcases her bakul collection—a 10-year culmination of her time living amongst indigenous people and learning about their craft.
Related: Red Hong Yi's latest artwork invokes the spirit of old Shanghai
At Wei Ling and Ilham Gallery, artists push boundaries in terms of visual medium and form, exploring the crisis of modern identity through unique image-making, from surrealist and expressionistic paintings to deconstructing totemic objects.
Read on to find out more.
Kenyalang Circus: A solo exhibition by Marcos Kueh
When: Now till February 19, 2023; Wed-Sun, 12pm-6pm
Where: The Back Room, First Floor, The Zhongshan Building
Translated 'Hornbill Circus', this exhibition points a satirical eye on the commercialisation of Borneo and Sarawak through textile works featuring cultural icons, texts, and graphic design. Having completed his studies at the Royal Academy of Art in the Hague, this is Kueh's first solo exhibition back home, executed as part of his thesis titled Kenyalang Circus: Myth Weaving of the Third World Spectacle.
Related: The Zhongshan Building and its vibrant, diverse creatives
From February 24 to March 12, 2023, The Back Room will also host Tikar/Meja, showcasing the works of Sabahan artist and founder of Borneo Heart, Yee I-Lann.