NEAR PERFECT: Chrisna Pindah’s paintings to be exhibited include the face of a girl, done so meticulously that it could almost be a photograph. — Photo by Anna Vivienne
FEMALE artists in Sabah have always been in the forefront of producing works of art. In fact, they seem to be holding exhibitions several times a year.
The Sabah Art Gallery will be shifting all its exhibits and office to a new building soon but this is not stopping the women artists from exhibiting their works at the old Sabah Art Gallery near the Sabah State Museum.
It may be a swan song for the gallery but not for these women who will definitely continue to show off their talents at the new building — and beyond.
CUTE: Images of tiger and bear superbly painted on two small stones.
Sabah Art Gallery manager Jennifer Linggi said the women who will be exhibiting their works from Nov 8 to Nov 16, are regulars to the art scene.
“They are tremendously talented and I’m very proud to see them show off their works to the public. I must say their contributions to the growth of art appreciation among the people are significant and I know they will continue to do so for a long time to come,” she added.
She expects to see at least 15 women, including herself, taking part in the exhibition.
“We can expect to see some interesting pieces — and one of the most interesting is the rock painting with acrylic as the medium by Flora Fung. It’s very remarkable and charming as she has painted animals and reptiles on small stones. They look almost real, if not for their size,” she said.
IS IT REAL?: The painting of a snake.
The other striking piece is created by Naomi Kato. It’s a white shell meticulously constructed with fabric and can be a centre piece for a living room wall.
Chrisna Pindah’s paintings to be exhibited include the face of a girl, done so meticulously that it could almost be a photograph.
The other fascinating works are by Tan Sheau Ling who painted sparrows and other birds. She will be exhibiting several of her works.
Wong Ai Yuen will exhibit works, including a stark depiction of trees on yellow background — almost surreal in its presentation.
Edeon Kang’s koi fish on canvas will also make it to the wall of the exhibition hall.
Jennifer said the meeting of various talents at the exhibition is something not to be missed.
“Among the other talents are Christianne Goonting who has been in the art scene for a long time, Siti Asgal and Aisah Alizaman. We will also see talents like Michelle Bidang and Datin Maimun Pengiran Bagul,” she added.
BY THE SEA: The painting of a seashell.
There should be 50 works of art in the exhibition hall at this time.
“I am very pleased with the participation and am sure those visiting us at this time will be inspired by the works of these talented women,” Jennifer said.
The exhibition will be held at the old site near the Sabah State Museum. This area has been used to display the gallery’s various thematic exhibits and collections for several years now.
It will be the last exhibition at the gallery with its limited space on the first floor of the science centre.
It has been the home, in part, of exhibitions annually — with some being held at the Cultural Board building in Kota Kinabalu.
From next year onwards, all exhibitions will be held at the new place at Mile Two, Penampang Road, near the National Archives.
BIRDS OF A FEATHER: Sparrows on a line.
PICTURESQUE: Surrealistic trees.