GEORGE TOWN: THE Penang Art Society is celebrating its 61st anniversary with an exhibition aptly entitled Negara-Ku at the Penang State Art Gallery in Lebuh Light to mark Merdeka Day.
It is the largest as well as the oldest registered art society in the country, with a membership of 500.
Eighty members are currently showcasing their artworks, which include sculptures, till the end of the month.
Society president Ch’ng Huck Theng said Malaysian artists were proud to come together to promote local art to the public and art lovers.
“In the beginning, many thought that the artworks in the exhibition must have a patriotic theme with the Malaysian flag or its colours dominating the paintings.
“But it should be about what we have experienced and lived through as Malaysians in Malaysia, which is a unique country because of the different races, religions and cultures.
“We are proud of our forefathers who fought for our country so that we would not be second-class citizens under British rule,” he said in his welcoming speech.
“In short we have been through a lot and we should appreciate what we have today and find ways to preserve and make an even better tomorrow. The notion of respect and acceptance should be preached by all who live in Malaysia,” he added.
Ch’ng said the artists are exemplary as they call themselves Malaysians and are not categorised under different ethnic groups.
“Art has no boundary. It will give Malaysian artists a stronger presence on the world stage.”
Air Itam assemblyman Wong Hon Wai graced the event. Present was PSAG curator Haryany Mohamed.
The gallery is open from 9am-5pm from Mondays to Thursdays. It is closed on Fridays and public holidays.
The exhibition ends on Sunday.
Admission is free.