Platform for artisans and artists

Koh says it is good to have a variety of exhibitors to draw more visitors. — Photos: FAIHAN GHANI/The Star

THE sixth Art Asia@KL 2019 Asian Warisan Fair was an attempt to showcase more than fine arts.

Younie Gallery Sdn Bhd chairman and founder Younie Wong said as the organiser, the objective was to gather entrepreneurs and artists from different cultures under

one roof at the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) Exhibition and Convention Centre in Kuala Lumpur.

Exhibitors from Indonesia, Myanmar and Malaysia were invited to take part.

“The idea was to showcase more than just art. The aim was to get visitors exposed to a variety of cultures, ” said Wong, who viewed the exhibition as a place to educate the public.

“We wanted art and antique collectors to interact to pique their interest in each other’s exhibits, ” Wong added.

The three-day exhibition, launched by QZ Muzium Sdn Bhd chairman Tengku Shamsulbhari Tengku Azman Shah, showcased antiques, arts, crafts and even items such as tea, coffee and herbs.

“Arts and culture help us identify our roots to ensure that we remain grounded in an era of rapid change and transformation.

“Promoting the arts and culture of a particular region can attract foreign and domestic tourists, ” said Tengku Shamsulbhari.

One of the exhibitors was fine art artist Koh Teng Huat, 56, who welcomed the opportunity to be part of something unique.

Dr Adlina and Sofina Qhadija showcasing their artwork on canvas.

“It is not often that you see fine art and antiques on the same platform.

“It is good for us as we can get more visitors and new customers, ” said Koh.

Indonesian exhibitor and Habibi Pearl founder Nur Janah showcased her cultured pearls jewellery from Lombok.

“These are genuine cultured pearls that we farm in the ocean and in freshwater, ” said Janah, who has exhibited in other countries, including Hong Kong.

Nur Janah (left) attending to visitors interested in her pearl jewellery.

Mother-daughter duo from Ademore Treasures and FinPieces, Dr Adlina Ahmad, 56, and Sofina Qhadija Ahmad Jaafar Sidek, 19, presented watercolour paintings on canvas that have the added touch of handwritten lettering.

Art Asia@KL 2019 Asian Warisan Fair was their very first public showcase.

“We want to introduce our art pieces to the public, ” said Sofina Qhadija.

Other exhibitors included Abbasy Prayerset, Anthony’s Artwork, Anson’s Antiques and Vintage Collection, Aung Hein and Min Yin Thant, Fong Kim Sing, Karyaneka, LiuPao Tea, QZ Muzium Sdn Bhd and National Textile Museum.