KUALA LUMPUR: An art exhibition was launched today aimed at raising funds for the Media Prima Palestinian Humanitarian Fund.
Media Prima Omnia chief operating officer Datuk Mohd Efendi Omar said the initiative was a step taken by the media conglomerate to assist Palestinians amidst the conflict which has lasted for more than a month.
The charity exhibition themed "Suara" or voice symbolises the artists' expression about the violence occurring in Palestine.
"This exhibition showcases more than 90 art pieces contributed by painters and art collectors, which will be put up for sale. A portion of the proceeds will be allocated to the Media Prima Palestinian Humanitarian Fund.
"It's also meant to promote artistry. This charity initiative will continue periodically. We hope our efforts can aid our brethren there," Efendi said at the launch of the 'Suara' Charity Art Exhibition for Palestine's Voice at Galeri Prima here today.
Present at the event were Media Prima Group chairman Datuk Seri Dr Syed Hussain Syed Aljunid and Media Prima Television Network's News and Current Affairs Department deputy group editor Azhari Muhidin.
The exhibition serves as a platform for the local art community to show solidarity and extend support to those affected by the conflict.
Among those participating in the exhibition are Raja Azhar Idris, Sharifah Fatimah Syed Zubir, Yusof Ghani, Rafiee Ghani, Haslin Ismail and Johan Marjonid.
In addition to displaying artworks centred on Palestinian struggles, the exhibition features other pieces such as the works of the late Khalil Ibrahim, Zaim Durulaman, Jamil Mat Isa, Ismail Latiff, Ahmad Shukri Mohamed, Raja Intan Azalea, Bayu Utomo Radjikin, Fujiaanggara, Husin Othman, Husin Hourmain, Raden Hisbullah, Aminah Abd Rahman and Rosli Zakaria.
Meanwhile, Art Case director Raja Azhar Idris said that over 50 of his artworks created over the past 10 years were showcased at the gallery.
"Actually, these paintings were intended for my exhibition in Langkawi, but due to the Palestinian issue, I've decided to contribute my entire collection to this gallery.
"Whatever collection I have, I'm giving it here and 60 per cent of the proceeds from the sales of these artworks will go to the Media Prima Palestinian Humanitarian Fund."
Elaborating on his three paintings related to Palestine, Raja Azhar said it took him 10 days to complete them.
"Throughout the creation process, I cried. I had dialogues with the paintings, and even with my child. I imagined myself in them. For example, in one of the works, I depicted myself with my child.
"All of this was done to convey emotions on canvas because without emotions, the artwork would be empty. Art must tell a story to convey feelings to the viewers," he explained.