KUALA LUMPUR: Balai Seni Maybank reopened its doors to the public with a physical exhibition titled "Hari-Hari Malaysia: A Collection of Wordless Comics Celebrating Independence and Nationhood 2022" after a hiatus of more than two years.
The art exhibition which features 88 artworks from 21 young comic artists honours the diversity of arts, as well as the delights of enjoying the different interpretations through the eyes of young and rising artists.
Maybank chairman Tan Sri Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa said the exhibition by local artists commemorated the reopening of Balai Seni Maybank in conjunction with the country's independence and Malaysia Day.
"Maybank has actively supported the local arts community since the 1980s.
"The artists convey their ideas and young optimism on what makes Malaysia distinctive as the nation celebrates its freedom and nationhood through these paintings.
"Indeed, art has the power to transcend national and social barriers," he said at Menara Maybank here today.
Maybank chief sustainability officer Shahril Azuar Jimin said the bank was upbeat about hosting a physical exhibition again after organising a virtual exhibition during the pandemic.
"This art exhibition mainly serves as a testament to our dedication to supporting and acknowledging the creative efforts of young artists in Malaysia.
"The histories of nations' identities and cultures will be forgotten as time goes by without such galleries," he said during his speech.
Also present were Maybank Foundation Board of Trustees member Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir.
The art exhibition will be open from 10am to 5pm on weekdays and from 11am to 4pm on Saturdays until Sept 30. Admission is free.
One of the artists, Marsha Akmal Hizam, 22, said it took her three months to complete her artwork.
"Over the years, art has always been abstract. Thus, through this show, it makes it much more engaging for everyone".
Seow Kar Yan, 22, expressed her appreciation for being allowed to be a part of the show.
"As honoured as I am to be participating, I hope that the message from all the featured art will inspire visitors to appreciate the nation even more," she said when met at the event.
Other featured artists were Ain Amirah Mohd Robi, Asma Azarisman, Cao Si Qi, Chew Sue Phing, Chin Tong Xin, Chuah Yunke, Daphaney Wong Yun Xian, Edra Scarlett, Farrah Yusoff, Goh Xuan Le, Karina Nayli Zaidi, Leong Yi Zhen, Muhammad Amir Danial Mohd Khaironi, Nueru, Too Cheng Shuang, Tunku Yusrina Tunku Nazrin, Wan Nurasyiqin Wan Mohd Lotfi and Wong Chi Ying.