Umar Sharif, who gained recognition for his Asuhan Dan Dandanan installation series at the Ilham Art Show 2025 – where canvas school belts were transformed into a conceptual work on discipline, identity and student experience – and Fauzan Fuad, whose recent Runut exhibition reimagined Kuala Lumpur through the shades of rusty skies and fragmented landscapes, are now poised to extend their artistic practices beyond Malaysian shores.
Khazanah Nasional Bhd has selected both Kuala Lumpur-based artists as the 2026 recipients of the Khazanah Associate Artist Residency (KAAR) programme, granting them a 12-week residency at Acme Studios in London beginning in September.
Umar’s practice explores memory, identity and the symbolism of everyday objects through drawing, assemblage and installation.
Fauzan, who has presented four solo shows, works across painting, photography, installation and video performance, drawing on the textures, rhythms and visual language of urban life.
They were selected from 51 applicants and received their Letter of Award at Seri Negara on Tuesday.
Khazanah managing director Datuk Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir said developing Malaysian talent is an important part of Khazanah’s role as a purpose-driven and long-term investor.
"Through KAAR, we are investing in the people behind Malaysia’s creative future by giving these artists exposure, networks, and opportunities to deepen their practice,” he said.
During the residency in London, the artists will participate in mentorship sessions, workshops and peer collaborations.
Their residency also coincides with Frieze Week, an annual art fair held in London, giving them international art event networking.
Since its introduction in 2017 and now in its seventh edition, KAAR has supported 14 Malaysian artists across diverse disciplines by providing professional development opportunities and career connections.
The impact of KAAR can be seen in the continued development and achievements of its alumni.
Among the many examples are 2024 KAAR recipient Paul Nickson Atia (Bakat Muda Sezaman 2025 Jury Award), and 2018 KAAR alumni Winnie Cheng, whose commissioned artwork The Dragon's Servant is currently displayed at Galeri Khazanah in Seri Negara.
"As we look to the future for the next 10 years, we are looking at a new chapter for KAAR. For the year 2027 onwards, we continue with our commitment to strengthening the arts ecosystem with a refreshed format," said Amirul.
"Building on what we have learned over the past ten years, the next phase would focus on nurturing artistic talent, connecting artists, institutions and communities and creating more opportunities for Malaysian artists to develop their practice," he concluded.
