KOTA KINABALU: Much more needs to be done to elevate the level of interest in both Sabah’s traditional and contemporary crafts, said Sabah Art Gallery curator Jennifer Linggi.
She said Sabah’s rich cultural heritage has long been a source of inspiration to local artists, especially the materials, patterns and colors used in traditional handicrafts and costume designs.
“Those living in the state are fortunate to have access to this glorious repository of knowledge and ideas, and with such wonders at their disposal, it comes as no surprise to learn that the gallery has repeatedly called for local artists to portray aspects of Sabah culture in their work,” she said at the Patterns and Colors of Sabah Exhibition 2011 at the State Gallery here yesterday.
“Sadly, some of the handicrafts exhibited in this exhibition are no longer being produced, and without any action to cultivate awareness, the craft skills needed to produce them will soon be lost forever,” she said.
The exhibition features 70 artworks, including paintings and handicrafts of various categories, namely traditional hats (sirung), food covers (tudung saji), traditional mats and woven fabrics.
Most of the works on display are rendered in watercolor or acrylic, with a few exceptions, such as the Lotud inspired cushion cover patterns created by Suzani Suhaimi.
Other artists have chosen architecture and the environment as their subjects, such as the works by Azlan Dulikab and Maduni Majidin.
Christianne Goonting’s mixed media abstract art provides a fresh perspective to the exhibition theme.
Many artists are inspired by the design and detailing of traditional costumes and fabrics, as evidenced in the works of Datin Maimun Pg. Bagul, Daiman Bona, Tengku Sabarnun Anuar, Kuan Shin Liang and Mastini Asap.
Magdelina Simban, Charles Mawan and others have chosen to focus on the patterns found in ornamentation and weaving patterns.