Exhibition of works in PJ by special young artists

The charity art exhibition showcases works by (from left) Zingirlbell, Eunice Chia, Looi Yoke Hui, Leong Kai Qing, Ken Looi, Esmond Yong, Isaac Foong and Owen Chong.

Heritouch Art Gallery will shine a spotlight on the talents of eight young Malaysian artists with special needs, in a charity art exhibition called “Painting Dreams Alive”.

Running until Sept 24, the exhibition features the works of Eunice Chia Kar Xuan, Leong Kai Qing, Zingirlbell, Isaac Foong, Looi Yoke Hui, Ken Looi, Esmond Yong and Owen Chong in a showcase of diverse artistic expressions, ranging from paintings to sculptures.

Each piece serves as an illustration of the life experiences and narratives that have shaped these artists.

‘Mourning Harambe’ by Esmond Yong pays tribute to the Western lowland gorilla tragically lost in a 2016 incident at Cincinnati Zoo.

As part of Heritouch Art Gallery’s commitment to nurturing these talents and fostering creativity within the special needs community, proceeds from the sale of the 70 featured artworks will be equitably distributed, benefitting both the artists and development of an art school dedicated to nurturing future talents.

Avid art collector and key event organising committee member Veron Tang said, “Art serves as a vital means of expression for these special children, allowing them to communicate what words often cannot.

“Among the featured artists, we have individuals with conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, congenital hearing impairment and Down Syndrome. We even have a courageous cancer survivor.

“Through this exhibition, Heritouch aims to raise funds for the establishment of an art learning centre, offering free art education for children with disabilities to unleash their full artistic potential.”

Teh Wuan Xin, another organising committee member, promises visitors an immersive experience.

‘Little Yellow Flower in Life’ by Ken Looi expresses the imprints of life challenges he experienced over the years.

“One of the exhibition’s standout pieces is a sculpture by Esmond Yong called ‘Mourning Harambe’, a powerful tribute to the Western lowland gorilla tragically lost in a 2016 incident at Cincinnati Zoo in the US,” Teh said, adding that it served as a poignant reminder of Harambe.

The exhibition takes place from 11am to 6pm at Heritouch Gallery, One World Hotel in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Heritouch Art Charity Drive is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting art as a means of empowerment and inclusivity.

Through various initiatives, it strives to provide a platform for artists with disabilities to showcase their talents and inspire the world.

If you would like to schedule a visit, call Li Hui at 012-859 6968.