Robert Draws – National Art Gallery has officially launched its 2025 Program Calendar, which outlines a series of artistic and cultural programs planned throughout the year. The event was inaugurated by YBhg. Datuk Wira Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC), at the National Art Gallery.
The 2025 Program Calendar has been meticulously crafted to invigorate the country’s art scene and strengthen the local art ecosystem by promoting community engagement through various programs and activities. These events include international exhibitions, art workshops, seminars, residencies, symposia, knowledge transfer sessions, and community activities.
The initiative aims to enhance the national cultural landscape and empower local artists while bringing together people from various walks of life to appreciate art. By offering such a wide array of events, the National Art Gallery hopes to inspire the public to deepen their understanding of art while exploring diverse artistic expressions.
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Alongside the unveiling of the 2025 calendar, Datuk Wira Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman also launched the ‘Manifestation of Two Arts’ program, running from November 2024 to January 2025 across the nation. This initiative serves as a vital platform for elevating the nation’s art and literary works, aligning with the vision expressed by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim in his 2024 Budget speech to foster the appreciation of Malaysia’s art and literature and engage the youth with these masterpieces.
The ‘Manifestation of Two Arts’ program focuses on a unique collaboration between visual artists and writers, blending the realms of visual art and literature. This initiative seeks to reinforce Malaysia’s cultural identity by encouraging dialogue and cooperation among painters, writers, poets, and other artists. The project aims to create a meaningful artistic experience that highlights the connections between different art forms and the potential for their fusion.
Through this program, the National Art Gallery has invited artists from diverse backgrounds to showcase both visual and literary masterpieces to a wider audience. The initiative also pays tribute to the value of older works while providing a platform for the creation of new pieces that reflect Malaysia’s evolving cultural landscape.
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The ‘Manifestation of Two Arts’ program is a collaborative effort involving various art and cultural associations across Malaysia, including Roman Buku Sdn. Bhd. in Kuala Lumpur, PORT in Ipoh, Perlis Artists Association, Terengganu Artists Association (PeTer), Senika in Kuantan, Pahang, and Kotak Seni in Kelantan.
Other participants include Ambeng Art Space in Johor, Melaka’s State Artists Group, Sabah Visual Arts Association, and Haus KCH in Sarawak. Each of these associations organizes artistic activities such as exhibitions, art workshops, poetry nights, and live performances, showcasing the rich and unique art and literary traditions of each state.
The program also includes art and writing competitions inspired by the nation’s literary and artistic heritage, providing participants with an opportunity to express their creativity through visual art and written word. Previous programs, such as Kalimat at the National Art Gallery and Suara Rasa x Dendang Anak at PORT in Ipoh, have exemplified the program’s mission of blending the visual arts with literature.
The ‘Manifestation of Two Arts’ initiative is not only a celebration of local talent but also serves as a bridge connecting generations and various cultural backgrounds. It plays a vital role in fortifying Malaysia’s artistic heritage and promoting greater understanding of the country’s diverse cultural expressions.
With this program, the National Art Gallery hopes to spark a deeper appreciation for Malaysia’s artistic and literary treasures while cultivating the next generation of artists, writers, and art enthusiasts. It is an endeavor to ensure that the nation’s artistic heritage continues to evolve and inspire future generations.
The launch of the 2025 Program Calendar and the ‘Manifestation of Two Arts’ program reflects the National Art Gallery’s commitment to enhancing the role of art in shaping the nation’s cultural identity. This initiative serves as a catalyst for the development of local art, bringing together artists, art lovers, and the public through various artistic activities.
By promoting such programs, the National Art Gallery hopes to position Malaysia as an international art and cultural destination while fostering a thriving artistic community that celebrates diversity, creativity, and innovation.
