Exploring Local Art 2.0, Tiny Displays Infused with Big Local
“Boss! Thosai satu!” A sentence that would bewilder anyone except a Malaysian. Three languages in one sentence, yet perfectly understandable. Get ready to celebrate the diversity and shared experiences that make us uniquely Malaysian as The Gardens Mall presents the second edition of its Exploring Local Art miniatures exhibition this 28 August – 22 September 2024!
The exhibition’s featured artists have captured scenes of Malaysians’ daily lives in miniature models with the added nostalgia of a simpler time. Remember how the honk of the roti man would bring children running out of their houses with their weekly allowance in hand, ready to get a pack of their favourite snacks. Then there was always the neighbourhood cendol stall on a hot sunny day to cool you down.
Eric Siow’s “Malay Kampung Kitchen” inspired by local cartoonist Lat (The Kampung Boy) sets the scene for a “Hidang Bertalam, Duduk Bersila” meal, a traditional way of gathering everyone in the family to dine together, especially during celebrations. Eric’s “Dim Sum” which was inspired by his favourite breakfast joint, is also on display for all to admire.
Take a look at PuiWan’s “Each Petal Counts” and read about how working at her sister’s Japanese restaurant got her wondering about the colourful floral garlands used by the local Indian community for prayers. “Yee Bee Sundry”, completed in 2021 was a commission project that was initiated by the sundry shop’s fourth-generation owner to preserve his family’s legacy and is a perfect example of how miniature models can capture memories.
The largest and most elaborate diorama in the exhibition is MinNature Malaysia’s “Celebrating Malaysia’s Multicultural Harmony: A Timeless Diorama”, measuring 11ft long. The piece is set against the backdrop of a lively town scene, with its three shophouses run by different families of different races. Capturing the dying traditional artform is “The Enduring Art of Rattan Craftsmanship” which celebrates the enduring spirit of the intricate craftsmanship of the rattan wares, standing strong against the encroaching tide of metal and plastic that define the modern era.
Miniature Model Exhibition Details:
Dates: 28 August – 22 September 2024
Venue: South & North Palm, Ground Floor, The Gardens Mall
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Hands-on Workshops: Try your hand at making miniatures with complimentary workshops held every weekend. Create your own miniature key charm to take home!
Time: 1pm – 2pm & 3pm – 4pm
Dates: 31 August, 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 & 22 September
Recommended for children aged 10 and above, with an accompanying adult. Registration starts 30 minutes before each session. Limited slots available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Social Rewards Contest: Join The Gardens Mall’s Social Rewards photo contest for a chance to win RM50 in gift vouchers! Take photos of the miniatures from the mall’s checklist and follow The Gardens Mall on Instagram for more details and clues.
Find out more at The Gardens Mall Instagram.
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