KOTA KINABALU: The nine-year-old daughter of Sabahan artist Harold Reagan Eswar has demonstrated the truth of the saying, "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree," by showcasing her talent and earning international recognition.
Hana Tatiza Eswar's character "Mahu" was selected as the official mascot for the Asia Pacific Triennial Kids showcase in Brisbane, Australia.
"Mahu" and its story have been on display at the Gallery of Modern Art & Children’s Art Centre at the Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) since 14 September.
The showcase will run until 13 July next year.
Hana - a pupil at Sekolah Kebangsaan St. Anthony, Penampang - developed the character during an interview with her father as part of his Spatial Biography Documentation series.
Hana's achievement was celebrated on her school's official Facebook page, with a post congratulating her for her remarkable accomplishment.
"From Penampang to the world. We are proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of our talented student Hana Tatiza Eswar for her remarkable accomplishment in designing the mascot 'Mahu,' which was selected as the official mascot for the Asia Pacific Triennial Kids in Brisbane, Australia.
"This prestigious platform showcases art from over 30 countries and is a testament to Hana's creativity and dedication at such a young age.
"Congratulations, Hana! Your success brings great pride to SK St. Anthony, and we wish you even greater achievements in the future.
May your story inspire your fellow students to dream big and pursue their passions with determination. Keep shining and creating!" read the post.
Harold, who has produced hundreds of paintings and exhibited extensively at the Sabah Art Gallery, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.
"I have titled this project 'Monsters of Wants,' which is part of my Spatial Biography Documentation series.
A huge thanks to QAGOMA’s Tamsin Cull and Laura Mudge for turning this idea into an incredible artistic journey for both Hana and me," he said.
The Asia Pacific Triennial Kids is a collection of seven artist projects where children can explore their creativity through hands-on activities, interactive multimedia, and reflective works like drawing and video art.
The showcase features artists from India, New Zealand, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste.
