FIFTEEN artists are offering their own interpretations of what it means to be Malaysian, in an exhibition shaped by history, culture and everyday experiences.
Coinciding with National Day month, “KITA: Celebrating the Art of Being Malaysian” brings together artists from different backgrounds and creative disciplines, each offering a personal perspective on the country and its people.
Ongoing until Sept 20 at Artspace Gallery in Atria Shopping Gallery, Petaling Jaya, the exhibition features a mix of acrylic works, oil paintings, sculptures and watercolour pieces.
The artists explore various themes ranging from wartime history and indigenous culture to Malaysia’s landscapes and childhood memories.
“Kita is more than a word. It is a feeling, a memory, a place we call home,” said gallery manager and artist Lum Weng Wah.
He said the participating artists came from a range of backgrounds, with some having started out in advertising and design while others developed their artistic practices through years of self-experimentation.
Diversity is also reflected in the reunion of three old friends − Stan Lee, Siva Nair and Rashid Yusof − who first met through the advertising industry in the 1970s.
The trio eventually returned to their creative pursuits through art.
“Their journey reflects a wider feature of the exhibition, with several participating artists coming from backgrounds outside formal fine arts training,” Lum said during the launch.
The exhibition was launched by corporate leader Prof Tan Sri Dr James Alfred.
Lum himself began painting seriously in 2023 after years of working as an art director in the advertising industry.
“In advertising, you learn about strategy, creative ideas, composition and layout, and how to present your ideas,” he said.
He noted that the experience had influenced his approach to art, particularly in composition, visual presentation and storytelling.
His painting Anak Malaysia depicts five boys jumping into the sea from a boat, evoking memories of childhood and the spirit of Merdeka.
For Lum, the work reflects the idea of growing up together and sharing a common sense of belonging.
“Every artist has their own story, but we share the same Malaysia,” he said.
Among the other works on display is The Art of War, a series by Lee who is known by his artistic moniker KULit.
Lee’s series explores Malaysia’s wartime history.
It depicts events surrounding the World War II.
