OFTEN overlooked and easily dismissed, ants take on a larger presence at AATO Gallery in Kuala Lumpur.
“Anthology”, a series by artist Sivarajah Natarajan, features about 20 ant forms made from recycled materials such as sponge, paper and wire mesh, alongside newly completed paintings.
“There are many ways we can interpret the environment.
“I think people often see the bigger picture, but not the tiny elements.
“The ant plays a very important role in maintaining environmental balance,” Sivarajah said.
The enlarged form of ants often unsettled viewers at first, he said, making people perceive the insect as “scary”.
“I don’t know why people think that; in reality ants are harmless.”
He noted that ants held a dual personality; while they might seem “threatening” due to their enlarged forms, they were actually gentle.
Attributing this to a lack of communication between humans and nature, he said that it was the former that started destroying things and taking the environment for granted.
Beyond the sculptures, Sivarajah’s interest in the natural world also comes from his work with plants and garden designs where he observes how different species coexist.
The installation is part of “Significant – A Group Art Exhibition 2026” at AATO Gallery held in conjunction with World Autism Awareness Month.
The curated showcase brings together 50 creators from diverse backgrounds, including contemporary artists, professionals from various fields as well as youths and artists with special needs such as those with autism.
For fashion designer-turned-artist Eric Choong, his series invites viewers to slow down and notice the details often missed in everyday life.
Aptly titled “The Art of Noticing”, the works reflect a personal shift shaped by nearly three decades in the fashion industry.
“About eight years ago, I decided to retire to take a break,” said Choong, who has liked to draw since young and whose experience in fashion −particularly with batik prints −continued to influence his work.
Now a painter and lecturer, he takes a hands-on approach working with materials like tie-dye, natural dyes, minerals and acrylic.
“I’m not a professionally trained fine art artist, so I use what I know and combine different mediums to create my artwork,” added Choong.
Meanwhile, in the centre of the exhibition space, a heavily embroidered and textured kebaya gown draws the eye.
Titled “Inventory of Soft Extraction”, the installation by Low Chet Ping draws on narratives of trade and colonial influence, referencing a time when spices were sought-after and extracted from the region.
Incorporating elements such as French lace and glass beads, the work reinterprets the traditional kebaya through a contemporary lens, blending craftsmanship with historical reflection.
Exhibition curator Phillip Wong said the event reflected a wide range of artistic expressions, highlighting the individuality of each participant’s creative voice.
The exhibition also extends into more experimental territory, incorporating fluorescent paint with UV light effects, poetic presentations and voice-based expressions.
“At its core, the exhibition brings together individuals who believe in the deeper value and meaning of life, connected through purpose, compassion and creative expression,” said Wong.
He added that the exhibition was aimed at inspiring hope, dignity and possibility, while serving as a shared platform for advocacy, creativity and connection.
“Significant – A Group Art Exhibition 2026” runs until April 30 at AATO Gallery, No.137, Jalan Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur.
Viewing hours are from 11am to 6pm (closed on Thursdays).
