A view of Zulkefli Jais' 'Project Temporary Marking' at the National Art Gallery in KL. This installation, inspired by his hometown Teluk Intan, won the major prize at (Bakat Muda Sezaman 2023). Photo: National Art Gallery
Young Contemporary Major Award 2023 (Bakat Muda Sezaman 2023) winner Zulkefli Jais will represent Malaysia at the Gwangju Biennale 2024 in Gwangju, South Korea from Sept 7 to Dec 1.
The National Art Gallery in Kuala Lumpur recently announced that Zulkefli will present an expanded version of his community-led installation Project Temporary Marking in Gwangju.
Zulkefli Jais' 'Project Temporary Marking' seen at the National Art Gallery in Kuala Lumpur. Photo: The Star/Shaari Chemat
Project Temporary Marking, which has been showcased at the National Art Gallery, combines geography and psychology to offer new perspectives on geopolitics, delving into lived experiences and memory.
"This artwork continues from its initial installation in Teluk Intan, Perak - a town significant to the artist as it is where he was born and raised. Formerly known as Teluk Anson, Teluk Intan is renowned for its leaning tower, which symbolises the town’s history.
Zulkefli's artwork is accompanied by a short documentary of the project in Teluk Intan. Photo: The Star/Art Chen
"His project explores how the town’s historical buildings and geography shape its identity, focusing on themes of trauma and loss,” the statement said.
Accompanying the artwork is a short documentary of the project, which will be shown at the exhibition in South Korea.
The National Art Gallery statement also added that Zulkefli’s selection for Gwangju Biennale 2024 marks a significant milestone for emerging Malaysian artists seeking global recognition. - Bernama
