Where is contemporary art in Malaysia and Southeast Asia heading?
What do you see in the crystal ball? I think contemporary art is heading towards very exciting times! This whole region have come out of very turbulent pasts – revolutions, wars, and major conflicts. The various countries in Southeast Asia and Asia in general are more stable now and are poised for some major economic growth. Art is generally a laggard industry. The money will definitely flow into it. We will need lots of art to fill up the walls of mansions for the new and old rich and the new museums mushrooming from every nook and corner. Of greater importance is the recent realisation that contemporary art is able to authentically encapsulate the soul and identity of the various communities that make up our region. Whilst I love to see artists play, please be reminded that they have very heavy responsibilities on their shoulders too! Sekeping Tenggiri, opening this November 2009, is located at 48 Jalan Tenggiri, Bangsar. For more images of the guesthouse/gallery, click here.
