KOTA KINABALU: International art exhibitions featuring Sabah’s creative talents are elevating the state’s global profile as a cultural and artistic destination, says Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
At the launch of Yee I-Lann’s solo exhibition at the Singapore Art Museum, Bangkuai praised the power of art in telling Sabah’s stories and showcasing its heritage.
“Art is a universal language that sparks curiosity and builds connections. By presenting Sabah-inspired works, we invite the world to experience our culture and, in turn, explore Sabah’s beauty firsthand,” he said.
Bangkuai expressed hope that more Sabah artists would draw inspiration from the state’s culture and landscapes for international exhibitions, positioning Sabah as a hub of creativity.
The exhibition, titled “Mansau-Ansau”, a Dusun phrase meaning “to wander without a set destination”, runs until Mar 23 next year, and is expected to attract over 45,000 visitors.
It showcases two decades of Yee’s career through an eclectic mix of photo collages, textiles, and natural materials.
The works combine traditional techniques with modern concepts, exploring themes of power, identity, and discovery.
The launch also marked another milestone for Yee, following her win at the ANTEPRIMA × CHAT Contemporary Textile Art Prize 2024, recognising her innovative contributions to textile art.
Additionally, Yee will represent Sabah at Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 from Dec 4–8, further solidifying her influence in the global art scene.
Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Singapore, Datuk Indera Azfar Mustafar, along with Singapore Art Museum chairman Edmund Cheng, Tourism Malaysia director Norliza Mohd Zain, and Sabah Trade and Tourism Office Singapore managing director Wendy Clare Stephens, were among the dignitaries present at the event.
Bangkuai stressed the broader potential of such international showcases in reshaping Sabah’s identity beyond natural beauty.
“These events are vital in positioning Sabah as a vibrant cultural destination. They can lead to innovative cultural tourism opportunities like art tours and cross-border collaborations, further enhancing our standing in the global creative landscape,” he added.
With Yee’s rising prominence and exhibitions like “Mansau-Ansau,” Sabah is increasingly being recognised as a beacon of artistic and cultural excellence on the international stage.
