Art Focus: Watercolour artist Chang Fee Ming’s moving tribute to Terengganu

Working at Mengabang Telipot Stodio, 2016 (Photo: by Dome Nikong)

We never forget where we come from. For one of Asia’s most respected watercolour artist Chang Fee Ming, no matter where life’s journey takes him, he always returns to the bosom of Terengganu.

When approached by Bank Negara Malaysia about doing a show on his beloved home state, he jumped at the opportunity to showcase Terengganu’s many unsung heroes, the everyday people.

From the fisher-folks on the coast to those living further inland among tall giants of the jungle bordering the great mountain ranges, whose everyday struggles fails to tamper their warmth and generosity; the people of this coastal state seldom get any attention and are usually content living a simple life.

“For the same reason, I decide to find the title among the work of late JM Aziz, a gifted poet from Seberang Takir – who despite his physical hardships – serenaded beautiful tales of the common people and their natural surroundings in Terengganu,” shares Fee Ming.

Orang Ke Laut, watercolour on paper, 56cmx76cm, 2014

Dzuhor in December, Across the River, watercolour on paper, 56cmX76cm, 2012

Terhakis...(Eroded), watercolour on paper, 38cmX56cm  2016

Garden by South China Sea, watercolour on paper, 76x56cm, 2015

The Last Selendang, watercolour on paper, 76x56cm, 2013

The title Selaut Kasih, Sepantai Sayang (or a sea of affection, shores of love) was taken from Aziz’s poem Kesian Dia, which was also turned into a popular song by the late Sudirman Arshad many years ago. 

“The poem perfectly captures the personal aspiration I have for this show, to share what I cherish most in my home state, that have either disappeared or will soon be gone,” he mulls over.

He fondly recalls his childhood memories of swimming in South China Sea, the beaches dotted with beautiful wooden fishing boats, enjoying folk music and wayang kulit performances, the Pesta Main Pantai or the annual harvest festival that brings the Orang Darat to the coast and more.

“I hope this exhibition will somewhat be a celebration of life of the Terengganu people, an introduction to the audience from the other side of the Titiwangsa range on how we live, wear, eat and worship. It may look simple but for me, the title is as meaningful as the exhibition itself!” 

Terengganu: Selaut Kasih, Sepetang Sayang is a showcase of Fee Ming’s passion for his home state through watercolours, sketches and drawings.

Exhibition ends July 17. For more information, visit the Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery website here.

Another watercolour artist we should pay attention too is Chin Kon Yit, who launched his Landmarks of Malaysia book last year.