ART can be a powerful way to give back to society.
With this in mind, local artist Tay Poi San, 73, is donating eight of his paintings to help raise funds for 12 non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
The auction will be held during a fundraising dinner next month organised by Suria Foundation Johor Baru.
Tay said he was inspired to help after learning about the foundation’s efforts to serve the community.
“I hope I can also contribute in my own small way.
“Everyone is doing their part to help and this is my main reason for donating the paintings.”
Tay, who has supported charitable causes through his art before, once had a painting sell for RM400,000 at an auction.
The eight paintings being donated feature diverse themes, ranging from traditional Chinese cultural symbolism and natural landscapes to contemporary subjects, reflecting Tay’s willingness to explore different forms of artistic expression.
His artistic journey began in 1980, following an earlier career as a wood engraver, a profession that required precision in proportions and overall structure.
His experience in wood engraving gradually sparked his interest in painting and led him to explore Chinese brush painting.
Under the guidance of his teacher, he explored the xieyi or freehand style which emphasises expressive brushwork.
Tay said Chinese brush painting emphasises lines and brushstrokes, while Western painting focuses on light, shadow and tonal contrast.
Among his donated works is a series inspired by the traditional Chinese concept of the “Five Blessings” representing a happy life.
Another painting titled “Riding the Wind and Breaking the Waves, Moving Forward with Courage” features the ocean and seagulls in flight, symbolising perseverance and determination to overcome challenges.
“Art can serve as a means to express compassion, creativity and social responsibility,” Tay said.
Suria Foundation Johor Baru founder and chairman James Ho said he was grateful to Tay for his contribution, adding that the eight paintings would be auctioned during the fundraising dinner on Nov 19 in Taman Johor Jaya.
The organisers aim to raise RM800,000 at the event, with Ho stating that the foundation had so far raised some RM350,000 through table sales.
“All proceeds will be channelled to local NGOs to support their charitable work so that they can continue serving the community.”
He added that many of these organisations faced financial difficulties due to limited public funding, making it challenging to sustain their efforts to help the underprivileged.
For details on the charity event, call foundation treasurer Ong Tyng Yun at 018-392 5012.
