Where Art Thou? Amazing Art Galleries in Malaysia

Although we live in an Asian society and most parents taught us that pursuing art was us being foolish or delusional, however, we would like to think that we can set that Asian mentality aside and appreciate some much needed culture. It’s a great way to spend the weekend, to unwind and just reflect on life or on the beautifully inspired creations of artists, which might even incite us to perhaps start creating works of art in the near future ourselves. Amongst the city are plenty of galleries and museums that echo the rich artistic history of Malaysia and we help list a couple of great galleries that are worth a visit.

Rimbun Dahan The very intimate space is supported by an octagonal air well at the centre which allows natural light to filter into the gallery. There are pieces of artwork on show which provide a visual story for resident artists that are reflective of their time learning and crafting creations at Rimbun Dahan. The space was transformed from a 14-acre fruit orchard in Kuang into a veritable institution of art, architecture and environment - a centre for developing traditional and contemporary art forms. Rimbun Dahan opens the gallery to the public on weekends during art exhibitions but do call ahead to find out what’s on display.

Website: www.rimbundahan.org Contact: [email protected] Address: Rimbun Dahan Km. 27 Jalan Kuang, Kuang 48050 Selangor, Malaysia.

Wei-Ling Gallery Home to the “big boys” of the art scene, Wei-Ling Gallery is one of the premier spaces to find leading contemporary Malaysian and international art. The gallery showcases works in all types of artistic media, from painting, architecture, design, drawing and even sculpture to installations. There are over 12 major exhibitions held there yearly and it continues to spearhead the expanding market for contemporary art in our nation. Spacious, high-ceilinged and airy, Wei-Ling Gallery is a great platform for contemporary art located in a busy public setting.

Website: www.weiling-gallery.com Contact: +603 2260 1106 Address: 8, Jalan Scott, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

G13 Gallery This art space collaborates and represents artists that render strong and relevant impact and works that can be deemed as promising academic material. G13 Gallery persistently searches for unique individualistic talent – local and international and it is their mission to unearth them. One of their sayings is to “uncover passionate works that evoke the soul and senses”. The gallery is 4000 s/f and hosts art dialogues, forums and even workshops to promote the artists and their works as well as embedding stronger interest and awareness in art to the community. Not forgetting, this is also the brainchild of Art Village Gallery, hence becoming the meeting space for every person involved in art from collectors, critics, academicians and even the media.

Website: www.g13gallery.com Contact: +603 7880 0991 Address: GL 13, Ground Floor, Block B, Kelana Square, Jalan SS 7/26, 47301, Selangor.

Artemis Art A contemporary art gallery that opened the doors of its Publika gallery space in 2013, Artemis Art Gallery focuses on conveying modern art to Malaysia’s younger generations. Starting out as a personal collection of works from Yogyakarta artists, it slowly built across the span of seven years into the majority of Artemis Art’s collection of works. Since then, this gallery has been a platform for fresh artists to gain a foothold in the art industry regardless of whether they’re still in school or newly graduated – even self-taught. What is vital is quality of the work exhibited and the artists’ determination to pursue art. Artemis Art is continuously doing its part to help raise appreciation among Malaysians for art and culture.

Website: www.artemisartgallery.com Contact: +60 19 664 7088 and e-mail: [email protected] Address: Publika Shopping Gallery, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery One of the most striking features in Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery is the beautiful Nautilus Staircase that begins from the lobby and links every single floor. The Art Gallery targets to showcase the Central Bank’s collection of Malaysian and Southeast Asian art acquired since 1962. If you have a few hours to spare, this would be a great possibility to check out as it is one of Kuala Lumpur’s best kept secrets. Impressively sleek, this complex is made out of glass and titanium and is quickly making its mark as a popular stop on the tourist map as a worthwhile learning experience. We aren’t surprised.

Website: www.museumbnm.gov.my Contact: +603 9179 2784 or [email protected] Address: Jalan Dato Onn, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Annexe Gallery Launched in 2007, Annexe Gallery is the epicentre for contemporary art that opened adjacent to KL’s Central Market, which is a landmark of Malaysian tradition and culture that showcases handicrafts. The gallery highlights artistic expression of living local artists through exhibitions throughout the year and helps increase awareness of international contemporary arts trends in Malaysia. Admission is free and the gallery is frequented usually by young and savvy adults of KL and the space regularly plays host to a series of talks, art exhibitions, book launchings, movie screenings and fashion shows. If you are in search for something more laid back, Annexe Gallery is just the place.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/annexegallery Contact: +603 2070 1137 Address: Second Floor, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi, Kuala Lumpur, 50000

Whether you're an ardent art collector or someone who just wants to soak up some culture in the city, here are some opportunities to explore the contemporary arts scene.

by: Adeline Tan