ARTIST Liew Choong Ching, whose works are narratives of scenes in their
natural surroundings, is showcasing his works at Balai Berita. The
proceeds from sales will go to charity.

THE mystical island of Bali, the tranquillity of Orang Asli life in

Pahang and much more come alive in the "Strode 30 From Figurative to

Landscape" exhibition by artist Liew Choong Ching.

The showcase at the main lobby of Balai Berita in Jalan Riong, Kuala

Lumpur, comprises a rich assortment of art reflecting a variety of styles

and subjects Liew has expertly addressed in his 10-year career.

His works are narratives of real scenes, composed with an eye for

detail and subordination of colour values which play primary roles in

them.

He has developed an eye for the oddities of everyday life with details

taken from their cultural, artistic and religious backgrounds.

He has captured friends and people in their most natural surroundings.

For instance, two boys playing in the river looking for fish, one

shirtless while the other, who has on a pair of goggles, has his face in

the water; a Balinese woman togged in a traditional kebaya with a small

flower behind her ears, carrying a plate of offering making her way to a

temple. These are two rare scenes in today's fast-paced lifestyle that

"have touched me deeply", says Liew.

When he ventured into art, he was interested in a variety of subjects

but found himself drawn to the Orang Asli (Jahut) settlements in Pahang.

This, in fact, became the essence of his first exhibition of works

entitled "Indigenous Series".

"There are two sides to the lifestyle of this community that fascinate

me. They lead a challenging life to survive and yet, there is a sense of

peace and calm about their lives and community," says the 29-year-old.

Liew later turned his attention to the east coast and produced the "East

Coast Series", featuring life in a Malay fishing community.

In 2001, he went to Bali to seek ideas for his upcoming figurative

series billed "Balinese Series". It revolved around the tranquillity of

the island and the simplicity of Balinese lifestyle.

"I've always been intrigued by the exotic setting of Bali. Life and art

are one here and these two elements inspired me tremendously when I was

there," says Liew.

One of the most interesting young painters of recent years, his

treatment of light and shade brought him the notice of galleries around

the country. The dappled effect of the sunlight, the ease of the reeling

figures, the glistening of the surfaces of water are captured with broad

sketch like strokes of his brush.

"Art is a craft to be practised joyfully," says Liew.

A native of Mentakab, Pahang, Liew received formal art education at the

Kuala Lumpur College of Art in 1992. So far, he has exhibited at various

art galleries in KL, Selangor and Penang.

The exhibition ends on May 28. Proceeds from the sale of the paintings

will go to the non-profit relief agency World Vision Malaysia Bhd. Viewing

hours: 10am-6pm. For details, call 012-670-9949.