KUCHING: In a vibrant tribute to its long-standing commitment to the arts, the Sarawak Fine Arts Society (SFAS) celebrated its 76th anniversary by partnering with tHe Spring Shopping Mall to host its annual members’ art exhibition, themed Colours of Sarawak.
Held on Sunday (July 13) at the mall, the event showcased a rich tapestry of local creativity and reaffirmed SFAS’ role as a cultural cornerstone in Sarawak’s artistic landscape.
According to SFAS president Chiam Soon Jung, a total of 32 members participated on both July 13 and 20, showcasing more than 60 pieces spanning a variety of mediums including Chinese ink painting, calligraphy, oil painting, acrylic, pencil sketching, pen drawing and linocut.
“The diversity of the exhibition reflects the society’s commitment to creative variety and excellence,” she said when met at the event.
A highlight of the day was a collaborative live art session, where 10 to 11 artists joined hands—quite literally—to co-create a massive traditional Chinese painting.
“The collective effort symbolised harmony and shared cultural heritage, with each brushstroke contributing to a unified masterpiece that celebrated both artistic expression and community spirit,” said Chiam.
Once completed, the painting will be displayed at the mall’s main lobby on a date to be announced by the mall’s management.
Adding further vibrancy to the celebration, 10 student artists aged 13 and above also participated in the collaborative effort, working side by side with seasoned SFAS members.
“Their participation not only highlights the society’s commitment to nurturing future artists but also underscores the power of art to unite across age and experience,” said Chiam.
Another major highlight was the collective live creation of Sarawak’s first-ever 40-foot-long Chinese ink scroll, coordinated by Sim Chiap Peng. The project showcased a wide spectrum of artistic styles and deep collaboration among SFAS members.
The 11 artists who contributed to the scroll were Chai Ching Lee (Calligraphy), Sim Kwang Meng (Ink Painting), Chong Lee Lin (Ink Painting), Albert Chong (Ink Painting), Leong Ming Kong (Calligraphy), Sharon Lim (Ink Painting), Liew Chan Hua (Ink Painting), Tan Pho Tsze (Ink Painting), Lim Tai Pheng (Calligraphy), Sim Chiap Peng (Ink Painting), and Chua Shiu Peo (Ink Painting).
The exhibition continues on July 20, culminating in a live art demonstration at 7pm, featuring six artists working in watercolour, oil painting, and pencil drawing.
The demonstration will take place at Level Two of tHe Spring Shopping Mall, next to GSC Cinema.
