Press release of the closing of Colourful Echoes

Artist Joanne Lau’s “Colourful Echoes” solo show at Hoan Gallery has become one of Kuching’s best-ever-selling art shows! After a four-week run, half of the show’s 51 pieces have been sold generating proceeds, a portion of which will be donated to the new church funds for the Chapel of Mother Mary, the Carmelite Monastery and the Sarawak Women for Women Society, of which she was once a president.

In a short but heartfelt speech at the gallery at La Promenade Mall on Sunday, Lau thanked all her supporters and art collectors, here and abroad. “Art connects and my collectors through their faith in me have really boosted my confidence as an artist in my art journey,” Lau said. “A Painful Heart is the most liked painting of the show. It sends out a clear message that it is okay to talk about it and seek healing when one is unwell.” She noted that large pieces, including ‘Colourful Echoes’ which the show is named after, were bought by collectors as far as Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. Other buyers include politicians, doctors, engineers, architects and bosses of big establishments. Her show is believed to be the highest-grossing at Hoan Gallery, one of the region’s most active art galleries. “I couldn’t be prouder of Lau and what she’s achieved,” said Hoan Gallery director Hoan Kee Huang. “Her show has been incredibly well-received by the local art scene. None of us artists can recall another recent show in which so many pieces were sold in such a short amount of time. Lau’s works have obviously really connected with people. Even during the preview period, four pieces were already sold. There is no doubt in my mind that Lau is setting a benchmark for art and art appreciation in Sarawak. She is not only admired but also an inspiration to many. Lau has really demonstrated how bright Sarawak’s art future can be. I hope many more artists will be motivated to create.”

Hoan Gallery has hosted four solo art shows, including another high-profile exhibition featuring the works of Alena Murang, since its opening in 2021. The gallery has become a focal point of an artistic revival in Sarawak. Emerging talents like Brandon Ritom and sculptor M. Sahzy have chosen Hoan Gallery to display and sell their works.

Next up, Hoan said the gallery would stage a solo show of David Chew, one of Sarawak best known abstract artists. “Chew is a truly unique artist in Sarawak. His works are not just ‘brave’ but also truly unique. I think art lovers are in for a treat when his show opens,” Hoan said.

Tentatively, Chew’s show is slated to open Sept 20.

In Hoan Gallery’s permanent collection are the works of Leonard Siaw, Stephanie Eng, Foo Syn Choon, Narong Daun, and more. The gallery is open daily, entrance is free, and all works on display are for sale.

For more info, visit hoangallery.com or lapromenademall.com.my.

#keepborneotalking #stirringupborneo #borneotalktravel Hock Seng Lee Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Sarawak Travel, Malaysia, Borneo