Venue:  A place called home, but as you walk in, you’ll find a projector set up on a round table, blending mixology with an architectural concept using recycled and antique furnishings. It’s a quaint spot—a wonderful place for wefies! Thank you to the generous owner, Min. 1. Rethinking Abstract by Sylvester Jussem Sylvester Jussem is an artist held in high regard for his mangrove and kabong works and is in the same echelon as the late Raphael Scott Abeng. Sylvester is an artist whose comments and critiques I deeply respect. Despite his extensive exposure both locally and internationally, his sincerity and authenticity shine through in his tone when sharing. He is someone who inspires and motivates me with his positive reviews. To Sylvester, rethinking is the act of reconsidering an idea to change or improve it. Personal experience is central to the creation of his work, which is inspired by his travels. The mindset of a painter is defined by a deep love for the creative process, openness to new ideas, and the strength to face and overcome obstacles. His notable quote is: “Everything you want originates from within you” by Hiral Nagda. Drawing is a curious process so intertwined with seeing that the two can hardly be separated. Just like in nature, Sylvester’s work is filled with philosophical contrasts: simplicity amidst complication, harmony amidst conflict, order amidst chaos. He feels he has achieved this through intricate design, simplicity of pattern, and repeating motifs. To find multiplicity in oneness, there needs to be maximum intensity with a sense of balance, expressed through a vibration of colours, a constant change in forms and shapes, and a rhythmic sense of movement. There are aesthetic and structural qualities in every observable surrounding, and artists and designers are influenced by these environmental settings. The expression “experience is the best teacher” suggests that learning from direct personal experiences often leads to a more dynamic understanding compared to theoretical knowledge or second-hand sources. Observation is crucial in every creative process. By photographing topics such as order, chaos, and evenness, artists learn to see their environment from different perspectives. Lastly, and to reiterate, drawing every day sharpens the visual senses. Thank you for your sharing, Sifu Jussem. The audience in rapt attention. The excited Jussem dramatising his point!   2. Curatorship by Dr. Mohamad Faizuan Bin Mat Dr. Faizuan is a quiet personality who steps into big shoes during exhibitions and in the art arena. He is the final authority in quality control. Artists, make sure your work ticks all the boxes before it is delivered. Personally, I have full respect for his decisions and judgment on the selection of art and its display. An excerpt from Dr. Faizuan’s talk: What does a curator do? A curator is a professional responsible for managing and overseeing a collection of artworks, artifacts, or other items in a museum, gallery, or similar institution. A curator’s duties often include acquiring new pieces, organizing exhibitions, ensuring the preservation and care of the collection, conducting research, and creating educational programs related to the collection. They play a key role in shaping how collections are presented to the public and can specialize in various fields such as art, history, science, and other disciplines. TYPES OF CURATORS · Curator for Art Institutions:  Appointed by the government, such as at the National Art Gallery or museums. · Independent Curator:  Works on a freelance or contract basis rather than being employed full-time by a single institution like a museum or gallery. Independent curators typically have the flexibility to work on various projects across different organizations or even create their own exhibitions and projects. Curators are essential for several reasons: 1. Research & Documentation 2. Cultural Preservation 3. Educational Value 4. Public Engagement Thank you for your sharing, Dr. Faizuan.   Written by Joanne Lau 20 august 2024

Absolutely pleased to see the collector take so much pride in displaying my art. A plaque to match the artwork.

Going to its new home in Sydney.

This is impromptu but spontaneity is my forte and I feel highly energized. Then an artist friend adds that the blooms befit the new exhibition venue at the Spring Mall. The 2 dynamic colours, pink and red , will be a huge attraction at the art show. You are welcome to visit and see for yourself! Happiness is painting this and enjoying every stroke I make . The sheer joy shines through in this beautiful piece. Happiness | 3ft x 4ft | Acrylic on Canvas A special painting with 3 updates to depict the joy of painting this after feeling inspired by the sale of my first painting on my debut as an artist in 2014 , followed by a successful Abstract 2022 and finally becoming an inspiration to others in my first solo art show with an incredible performance in 2024. Inspired and Inspiration | 3ft x 4ft | Acrylic on canvas

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/29/journey-through-colour-and-emotion

My solo art show, Colourful Echoes was accorded a 6-page spread in the Living Moments, a magazine of the conglomerate of the master builder, HSL. Much appreciated and I feel really honored.

Bold and Beautiful is at a private home in Eden on the Park.

Rainforest Y is residing in the boardroom of a leading law firm in Sarawak.

I started on this more than a week ago to summarize the closing of my first solo show. This is about moving forward. Yesterday and Today is the title of this.

For a special couple who dated 10 years to this day, Dr and Dr Aaron Lau. It was a joy painting this for them and hopefully they will like it as much as I have liked painting it. Congratulations and hugs.

Even though we're a construction company, but it really does bring us joy to support the local arts scene. This is especially true when artists donate to charity. For Joanne Lau's solo art exhibition at Hoan Gallery, one of the charities she donated to is the Sarawak Women for Women Society, which we love supporting. Lau is a most talented and big-hearted artist. On behalf of us all, thank you for your beautiful show at #HSLTower / #LaPromenadeMall.

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