Malaysian artists shine in virtual exhibition welcoming the Year of the Ox

Malaysian artist Ch’ng Kiah Kiean's new work 'Cow And Calf' (2021). Photo: Ch’ng Kiah Kiean

Ten Malaysian artists have joined their contemporaries from 15 countries around the world to come together in an international online art exhibition that showcases various interpretations of the Ox.

Organised by Singapore's Nanyang Academy Of Fine Arts (NAFA)’s Alumni Relations Office, the Year Of The Ox - Cloud Exhibition explores the idea of “nian hua” (Spring Festival), which often depicts auspicious symbols and beautiful images to signify good luck and new aspirations.

The show gathers diverse artworks from Club NAFA and NAFA Alumni Association members, as well as guest artists from Malaysia, Japan, Vietnam, Taiwan, Britain, Russia, Croatia, Peru, the United States and other countries.

Participating artists from Malaysia include Ch'ng Kiah Kiean, Tan Shin Tiong, Ng Bee, Chong Choy and Koh Sock Hoon, among others.

Tan Shin Tiong's 'Working Hard' (carving on mahjong tile, 2021). Photo: Tan Shin Tiong

More than 60 artworks are on display in this exhibition, offering a range of creative Ox-themed interpretations. From the pandemic face mask and mahjong tiles to Chinese ink and olive seed carvings, there is no shortage when it comes to art mediums and imagination.

This collaboration is seen as a mark of unity against the backdrop of the ongoing pandemic.

The Cloud Exhibition is part of NAFA’s annual Hui Chun held last weekend to usher in the year of the Ox.

The artworks in the Cloud Exhibition can be viewed here.