Cover Image: Alena Murang/Clash Donerin
Image: Alena Murang/Clash Donerin
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It's festivals, markets and galleries galore as June is looking to be another exciting month for those looking to get their creative fix
The fun never stops—from Jameson Yap’s much anticipated show at Eslite Spectrum to the 18th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival in Sarawak, arts and culture enthusiasts will find the month of June absolutely thrilling.
Some must-see exhibitions include The Back Room’s Insistencia/Resistencia, which features the works of three world-renowned Guatemalan artists; A+ Works of Art's final instalment of Paraphrase, a presentation and celebration of Southeast Asian artists both new and old; and Ilham Gallery’s ongoing lift the tikar presentation and Yee I-Lann’s artist talk happening this weekend.
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‘Mindfulness’ by Jameson Yap
Don't miss the second solo exhibition of local calligraphy artist Jameson Yap at eslite spectrum Kuala Lumpur. The Mindfulness series beckons visitors to embark on a transformative voyage of self-discovery with Yap's signature River strokes. Breathing life into each character, Yap allows spectators to immerse themselves in the graceful show of strength and beauty through his calligraphy.
From serene tranquility to powerful introspection, Mindfulness offers viewers a unique opportunity to delve into the depths of one’s inner self and embark on a profound visual and emotional journey of their own. For those keen to learn more about Yap’s River stroke process, the calligrapher will do a live demonstration as well as a book signing on June 17.
When: Now till June 30, 10am-10pm
‘Lost Sanctuary’ by Eduardo Enrique
Dubai-based artist Eduardo Enrique's exhibition Lost Sanctuary combines cultural heritage and contemporary pop culture through captivating digital and physical sculptures, backed by NFT certification. Creating art that challenges conventional norms, Enrique's audacious critique of complex issues pertaining to modern society prompts viewers to review topics like cultural transformations, consumerism, globalisation, and the future of ownership.
Exhibited at Else Kuala Lumpur, it kicks off the hotel's inaugural artist-in-residence programme.
When: Now till July 30
‘Insistencia/Resistencia’
The Back Room Gallery's Insistencia/Resistencia: Three Contemporary Artists from Guatemala is an exhibition about heart and home, a subject close to the heart of curator Liza Ho who was born and raised in Guatemala after her parents migrated from Hong Kong.
Featuring the works of Guatemalan artists Antonio Pichillá Quiacaín, Esvin Alarcón Lam, and Marilyn Boror Bor, Insistencia/Resistencia intertwines craft, design, and contemporary and indigenous cosmologies, exploring critical themes of cultural identity, displacement, and belonging in Guatemala.
Each artist offers a unique perspective on cultural inheritance and the transformative power of art, using evocative visionary narratives to shed light on societal challenges, foster dialogue and bridge divides within Guatemala's diverse communities.
When: Now till June 4, Wed-Sun, 12pm-6pm
‘Saturn Return’ by Theatresauce
Directed by Mia Sabrina Mahadir and presented by Theatresauce, a talented all-women ensemble delves into the profound themes of womanhood, spirituality, female friendships, love, sex, and mortality in Saturn Return, a theatrical performance that explores the journey of six women navigating life after 30.
Inspired by the actual phenomenon in astrology occurring every 29.5 years, Saturn Return marks the transformative period in one's life. As the planet Saturn aligns with the exact zodiac sign, degree, and house of one's birth, it prompts a deep introspection into their identity, purpose, and lasting impact on the world. This momentous occasion, which repeats two or three times in a lifetime, brings forth new challenges, responsibilities, tests, and opportunities for personal growth. For ticketing information, visit https://linktr.ee/theatresauce.
When: June 14-18, 3pm and 8.30pm
Where: Rooftop Theatre, 4th floor, Sunway College
’L’Œuvre au Noir‘ by Vaultman
Above Image: Yin Yang, by Vaultman (Alliance Française)
Image: Yin Yang, by Vaultman (Alliance Française)
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In a world consumed by the rapid pace of modern life and the overwhelming abundance of media options, Vaultman chooses to go against the grain by choosing to embrace the simplicity of black and white at The Godown KL.
By employing this minimalistic technique, Vaultman's work implores audiences to reconnect with the essence that lies within, inviting them to explore the profound impressions and emotions that can emerge from the harmonising interplay between these two contrasting tones.
This artistic dialogue will extend beyond the visual realm as the worlds of music and painting collide. Joined by Malaysian artists Mei Lin Hi, a concert pianist, and John Thomas, a jazz drummer, Vaultier's Black Work or L’Œuvre au Noir intends to captivate audiences with a unique experience that transcends boundaries and creates a meaningful connection between art forms.
When: June 2-17, Mon-Thu, 12pm-6pm, Fri-Sun, 12pm-7pm
Rainforest World Music Festival
The highly anticipated Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) returns to Sarawak, celebrating soulful world music that ranges from traditional, fusion and contemporary. Featuring an impressive line-up of 199 musicians from 12 countries, including Nading Rhapsody, which is Sarawak-born poet and singer-songwriter Kulleh Grasi's band, this year's RWMF looks to be its most exciting one yet. For more information, visit https://rwmf.net.
When: June 23-25
Where: Sarawak Cultural Village, Pantai Damai Santubong, Kampung Budaya Sarawak, 93752 Kuching, Sarawak
‘Paraphrase: Part II’ by A+ Works of Art
The second and final instalment of Paraphrase by A+ Works of Art is a celebration of Southeast Asia's emergent and seasoned contemporary artists, including Agus Suwage from Indonesia, Chong Kim Kiew from Malaysia, and Hà Ninh Pham from Vietnam.
When: June 6 till July 29, Tue-Sat, 12pm-7pm
Where: d6-G-8 d6 Trade Centre, 801, Jalan Sentul, 51000 Kuala Lumpur
Artist Talk: History and Power by Yee I-Lann, Ilham Gallery
Addressing questions of power, colonialism and its impact on Malaysia's history as well as the entirety of Southeast Asia, Yee I-Lann, celebrated contemporary artist and founder of Borneo Heart KL, will give a talk at the Ilham Gallery from June 3-4. The talk on June 3 will be hosted by the gallery's own student council for high-school students interested in arts and culture, while the second day will be open to the public. Both require registration via the email address given on its Instagram page.
Additionally, visitors can also visit the lift the tikar exhibition that features works Yee had made in collaboration with the artisans, dancers, and filmmakers in East Malaysia. For more information, visit http://ilhamgallery.com/.
When: June 3-4, Sat 11am onwards, Sun 3pm onwards
‘Escapism’
A collaborative event hosted by two artists, painter and upcycling artist Jinx and intuitive painter Samantha Yeoh, Escapism is an immersive art exhibition that will be accompanied by upcycling workshops.
When: June 17 till July 2, 11am-8pm
Where: GMBB KL, No. 2, Jalan Robertson, Bukit Bintang, 50150 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
‘Sky Songs’ by Alena Murang
Image: Alena Murang/Clash Donerin
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Mark your calendars for a captivating evening of music, heritage, and homecoming as acclaimed sape' musician Alena Murang presents her first solo concert at Petaling Jaya Performing Arts Centre (PJPAC) in 1 Utama Shopping Centre. Murang will bring her ancestral Dayak heritage to Kuala Lumpur for an unforgettable night of songs and remembrance. Titled Sky Songs after her second album, this performance explores the elements of the sky and the intricate interactions of nature.
She will be accompanied by a talented band and immersive visuals curated by OtherHalf studio. For ticketing information, visit https://www.onetix.com.my/events/live-in-kuala-lumpur--alena-murang-sky-songs/173.
When: June 17, 8.30pm
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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.
