Discovering Malaysia’s street and contemporary art scene

Malaysia is historically known as the artistic centre of Southeast Asia. The galleries here are brimming with an array of oil paintings, sketches, sculptures and other creative arts from home and abroad.

There are even certain streets across Malaysia that have become dedicated street art exhibitions, allowing for a new wave of talent to leave their mark.

For over a decade, the people behind Wei-Ling Gallery have pioneered the growth of contemporary art in Malaysia by establishing three art spaces, two in KL and one in Penang. The Penang Wei-Ling Gallery at Victory Annexe is the largest gallery in Malaysia and also has the largest catalogue of local art literature in the country.

The gallery is now focusing on showcasing more experimental artworks to support the booming Malaysian creative industry.

Wei-Ling Gallery in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur

Check out their website http://weiling-gallery.com/ for more information on entry and opening hours.

The Annexe Gallery is probably the most well-known gallery in Malaysia. Nestled within the arts and craft mall at Central Market, the gallery hosts some of the most prominent speakers and artists who discuss their art in very informal and liberal gatherings.

The experience of getting up close and personal with artists is a truly enriching experience — not to mention the unique exhibits on display.

Check them out on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/annexegallery for their latest exhibitions and workshops.

Workshop at Annexe Gallery

Source: annexegallery.blogspot.com

The street art in Malaysia has become an iconic feature of cities such as

Georgetown in Penang and Ipoh, with UNESCO recognising the contributions of the art. Leaving the greatest influence is Lithuanian street artist Ernest Zacharevic who has lent his midas touch to transforming these heritage listed buildings, giving life to powerful images of moments in time.

There’s even a Ernest Zacharevic Murals Walking Trail. Here’s some of his best works:

Little Children on Bicycle, Penang

Little Girl in Blue, Penang

There is also the hidden mural lane in Ipoh, a series of paintings by renowned local artist Eric Lai, highlighting the many cultures of Malaysia featuring Chinese, Indian and Malay traditions. This has also transcended into the cafe and bar scene with many new venues embracing modern artistic influences.

Mural Lane, Ipoh

One of the most well-known cafe-cum-galleries in Penang is China House in Georgetown. China House is partitioned into 14 sections, with its Penang-Chinese architecture housing cafes, bars, art galleries plus a theatre. They have monthly exhibitions displaying local and international artists. Click here for more details.

Shalini Ganendra Fine Art complex have become a great preserver of Asian contemporary arts programmes and exhibitions owning high quality and sought after paintings, furniture, ceramics as well as textiles and jewellery. The neo-modern design of the studio is Zen-like and perfect for absorbing artistic vibes.

Follow them on Facebook for more information.

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Jalan Bedara, Gr Floor Bidara Condo

Behind Hotel Istana

Bukit Bintang, KL 50200

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