KUALA LUMPUR: The Mexican embassy in Malaysia has named a new cultural space after legendary Malaysian artist Datuk Ibrahim Hussein and widely-acclaimed Mexican painter Gilberto Aceves Navarro.
Ibrahim, fondly known as "Ib", is best known for inventing a medium called "printage" – a mixture of printing and collage.
The embassy, in a statement, said the cultural space is a tribute of respect and admiration to the two remarkable artists who were "contemporary and akin" in their artistic vision.
Mexican ambassador to Malaysia Edmundo Font inaugurated the "Gilberto Aceves Navarro-Datuk Ibrahim Hussein" Cultural Space on Monday that showcases artworks of 107 children aged between 8 and 14 from Malaysia and Mexico.
These children submitted their artworks for the "Este Es Mi Mexico" (This is My Mexico) drawing contest that was organised by the Institute for Mexicans Abroad (IME) in conjunction with Mexico's Independence Day.
The drawings that are exhibited in the newly-inaugurated cultural space reflects their personal interpretation of Mexico's journey towards independence.
In this year's contest, two Malaysian children from Penang, Khoo Jin We, 10, and Koay Zhe Yi, 14, were presented with "honourable mentions" for their artwork.
The embassy also hoped that these budding Malaysian artists will serve as "artistic and symbolic bridges" between Malaysia and Mexico.
On Sept 16 this year, Mexico turned 211 years old on the same day as Malaysia commemorated the 58th anniversary of the country's formation.