KUALA LUMPUR – One would pay millions for a Warhol but think twice about investing a fraction of that to support local artists.
It is this simple analogy that prompts art lover Datuk Gary Thanasan to champion local talents.
While Picasso, Warhol, Matisse and Pollock are names that roll off the tongues of even non-art aficionados, many struggle to name even one Malaysian painter.
“We need to do more to promote Malaysian art and artists. Their works are as profound as those of their famous counterparts,” said Gary who is chief executive officer and founder of KL Lifestyle Art Space (KLAS)
He was speaking at the launch of the Prime Icons exhibition held at the KLAS gallery in Bangsar recently.
The exhibition which ends on July 20, showcases the works of Malaysian contemporary artists Awang Damit Ahmad and Yusof Ghani.
It is also in conjunction with the 14th anniversary of KLAS which Gary created to promote the works of Malaysian artists.
“(However) we need everyone’s support to continue elevating the Malaysian art landscape,” he said at the launch of the exhibition by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.
“It is quite sad to see the most expensive artwork ever auctioned in Malaysia is the work of a foreign artist for almost RM1 million,” Gary said.
He was referring to “Prelude to Violence” by José T. Joya of the Philippines, which sold for RM940,800 in 2019.
“Malaysian art deserves better.
“Also, by buying art pieces by foreign artists, there is an outflow of our money. By promoting local artists we can help ensure the growth of local talents and make Malaysian art contribute economically to the country,” he added.
Tengku Zafrul meanwhile said he will facilitate the promotion of Malaysian art overseas as a form of investment, through the efforts of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade).
“We need to create the right ecosystem to help Malaysian art thrive.
“I will talk to my colleagues in the cabinet, especially the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, to establish a platform for more strategic and coherent promotion of art,” said Tengku Zafrul.
Sabah-born Awang Damit and Yusof Ghani from Johor are among the most celebrated artists in Malaysia, whose works draw from personal experience and the country’s socio-political landscape.
Their works have sold at auctions in excess of US$100,000 and can be viewed at KLAS.
KLAS is located at 150, Jalan Maarof Bangsar and is open daily from 10am to 7pm. – July 16, 2024