A Malaysian woman's legacy's of fearlessly speaking truth through art

Nirmala's 'Self Portret (WIP)' artwork seen at Ilham Gallery in Kuala Lumpur. It is part of the 'Nirmala Dutt: Statements' exhibition, now in its final month on view. The show ends on Dec 24. Photo: Ilham Gallery

The late contemporary artist Nirmala Dutt (1941-2016) was a pioneer in many ways.

She was one of the few prominent women artists of her time and boldly experimented with different forms and techniques from early on in her career.