KUCHING: Sarawakian art took centre stage with the launch of ‘The Continuum: Tiga Generasi’, an evocative exhibition, celebrating three generations of visual storytelling and creative legacy.
The launch was officiated by Deputy Minister for Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, who represented Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, at Hoan Gallery on Friday.
“This show is more than a display of artwork; it’s a dialogue across generations.
“Their works reflect how art evolves with time while remaining rooted in shared values and inspiration,” Snowdan said, noting the inclusion of works by the late Raphael Scott AhBeng, Sylvester Jussem and Dr Mohammad Faizuan Mat.
The exhibition pays tribute to Raphael, the Bidayuh master artist renowned for his bold brushwork and deep reverence for nature.
His iconic depictions of Sarawak’s spiritual landscape, such as Santubong, Mystical Moodle, and Approach to Borneo Heights, continue to echo across the state’s cultural memory.
Dr Faizuan Mat, both artist and curator of the exhibition, described The Continuum as “a living rhythm of Sarawak’s visual spirit, connecting generations through colour, gesture and voice.”
“My contribution comes from a place of abstract expressionism, where texture and emotion speak louder than image,” he said, while announcing the upcoming launch of his book, which will also be hosted at Hoan Gallery this August.
Sylvester Jussem, known for his distinctive blend of tradition and experimentation, spoke of the shared artistic lineage on display.
“Even Picasso acknowledged that while originality is prized, art is not created in a vacuum.
“This exhibition stands at a crossroad between past, present and future,” he said.
Sylvester’s Ring Lady series, displayed alongside Dr Faizuan’s contemporary works and Raphael’s expressive landscapes, invites visitors to explore themes of heritage, identity and transformation.
“Together, these three artists form a continuum; a living thread that connects generations, ideas, and expressions,” Sylvester noted.
The exhibition was made possible through the support of the State Library, which loaned select pieces from Raphael’s collection, as well as the Sarawak Arts Council, UNIMAS Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts, and various collaborators.
Snowdan called on the public and media to support Sarawak’s cultural scene.
“Beyond buildings and roads, our progress must be seen in how we honour our stories and enrich our communities,” he said.
The ‘Continuum: Tiga Generasi’ exhibition will run for one month at Hoan Gallery.
Entry is free, and selected works are available for sale.
