RANAU: A resort here has made use of the time during Covid-19 pandemic to turn its cottage rooms into a mini art gallery.
Sabah Tea Resort general manager Martin Kong said during his visits to the Sabah Art gallery in the state capital, he realised local artists could produce world class paintings.
"For several years, I have been wanting to promote the work of our local artists.
"With spare time during Movement Control Order in the second half of 2020, I approached (Sabah-based artist) Christianne Goonting.
"She coordinated with her fellow artists to come up with 16 'artist promo prints' to promote their paintings (at the resort)," he told the New Straits Times.
Kong added that prior to the pandemic, most of their guests were westerners including senior citizens from Australia and Europe who value art.
As for the displayed paintings, he said those were only replicas but interested buyers could contact the artists directly.
"We will keep showcasing the current selection through 2023, with international visitors only returning to Sabah beginning April 2022.
"After that we will discuss with Christianne and her artist friends the option of displaying new paintings and promoting other Sabah artists.
"The programme will continue to be part of our assistance to support local talent," he said adding all the proceeds will go to artists.