Visitors stroll past Kide Baharuddin's 'Haghi Rabu Pukul Tigo Potang' at the Galeri Puteh booth during the opening ceremony of CIMB Artober 2024 on Oct 24. Photo: The Star/M. Irsyad
The third edition of CIMB Artober Art & Soul, an annual celebration of art, culture and fashion is back with a curation of over 1,000 artworks by more than 100 artists, presented by 20 local galleries, including Galeri Puteh, G13 Gallery, Zhan Art Space, Taksu, Sareng, Segaris and others.
The art fair, free and open to the public, will take place at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur from Oct 25-27.
In addition to the featured galleries, the weekend fair will host fashion shows showcasing the latest art-to-wear collections and engaging art talks by prominent local figures. The opening ceremony today was attended by Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, who toured the galleries and textile displays.
"CIMB Artober Art & Soul has proven to be an important economic engine for the Malaysian art ecosystem, generating over RM15mil to date and benefiting at least 200 artists since its inception. This art fair has since gained a greater following, stronger traction and a wider audience, and we hope that Artober will continue its legacy of contributing to the economic empowerment of local artists and designers,” said Tan Sri Mohd Nasir Ahmad, chairman of CIMB Group, at the launch.
The gallery floor at MITEC offers a diverse collection of Malaysian and international art for both new and seasoned collectors, providing an opportunity for everyone to engage with the latest trends in the art scene.
Galeri Puteh, hosting the Tittle-Tattle Tales exhibition, features a mix of established and emerging artists, playfully referencing gossip and politics within the art scene.
"In our industry, particularly at an art fair of this scale, which showcases numerous artworks, there are countless stories and storytellers, whether they be critics or anyone sharing insights about the pieces," said Nizam Rahmat, Galeri Puteh’s co-founder.
Sabri Idrus' large-scale abstract work titled 'Namus' seen at the Sareng gallery booth. Photo: The Star/M. Irsyad
"The idea behind Tittle-Tattle Tales is to encourage self-reflection whenever we discuss art, emphasising that the artist should always be the focal point," he added.
Galeri Puteh's booth features 19 artists, with their artworks rotated throughout the weekend. Highlights include Rafiee Ghani’s abstract paintings The Red Forest and The Sleepless Beach, as well as Kide Baharuddin’s chaotic illustrations of daily life in Haghi Rabu Pukul Tigo Petang. Additionally, Datuk M. Nasir’s acrylic pieces Alasan and Tanda Arah showcase the legendary musician's exceptionally productive year in art.
At Core Design Gallery's booth, Masnoor Ramli Mahmud’s The Wall is Complementary, recently showcased in Taiwan, is a striking centerpiece. This large collage of social media posts is colored to resemble the Yin-Yang symbol, blending promotional tweets, social justice opinions, and self-deprecating expressions from the public.
In addition to visual art, there are booths featuring textiles, including Yayasan Hasanah, which is showcasing the original looming tool for traditional songket garments known as the 'Kek.' Photo: The Star/M. Irsyad
"We aimed to emphasise the importance of documenting social media - a platform widely used by the younger generation. It gives them a voice to express themselves, but it can also have negative consequences if misused," said Scarlette Lee, art director of Core Design Gallery.
"While we still rely on information and social media remains one of the largest sources for artists, balance is essential; hence the depiction of the Tai Chi pattern," she added.
Like any commercial art fair, it’s essential to showcase a diverse range of artists, and it was refreshing to see some galleries providing a platform for emerging talents.
Artist Nigel Sense speaks to visitors about his two artworks 'Coconut Shake Shop' (left) and 'Soy Sauce Makes Me Thristy' (right) at the Zhan Art Space booth. Photo: The Star/M. Irsyad
At Zhan Art Space's pop-up booth, Sanker Ganesh, Peisy Ting, Isa Ishak, and Nigel Sense come together to present artworks that embody the contemporary and distinctive expressions of a new generation.
"As with most of our exhibitions, we strive to present something fresh, contemporary, and vibrant, setting it apart from classical art," says Desmond Tong, Founder and Curator of Zhan Art Space.
"Our intention is to spark joy through all the artworks, especially those from artists of diverse cultural backgrounds. We’re thrilled to showcase pieces by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Australian artists," he added.
In celebration of CIMB's 100-year anniversary and its new social movement, Kita Bagi Jadi, the art fair will feature special performances by talented young musicians from the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra throughout the weekend.
