ARTIFICIAL intelligence can never replace human creativity, especially in the arts, says Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai.
He lauded Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and its graduating fine art students for their creative exhibition titled “Rintis: Seni dan Arkeologi (Pioneer: Art and Archaeology)”.
Showcasing the final-year works of 41 students from USM’s Fine Art Department, the exhibition explores themes of archaeology, Malaysian heritage sites, and historical narratives through visual art.
“This is a meaningful exhibition. The students have used this platform to deeply explore and reflect on issues surrounding archaeology, ancient history, and the connection between art and the heritage sites,” Wong said during his visit to USM yesterday.
Wong voiced his strong support for nurturing young artistic talent amid the rising use of artificial intelligence in creative industries.
“I want to emphasise that artificial intelligence cannot replace the creativity of artists.
“I hope USM will continue to discover and nurture new talents, and that more final-year exhibitions like this, themed around archaeology and art, will be held in the future,” he said.
Open to the public for two months beginning yesterday, the exhibition aims to bridge contemporary artistic expression with cultural heritage appreciation.
Wong also lauded the George Town Heritage Celebrations taking place this month, describing it as a momentous occasion for the state throughout July.
“It is an annual tradition to attract visitors to Penang,” he added.
USM Industry and Community Network Division deputy vice-chancellor Prof Dr Azlan Amran paid tribute to the students’ hard work and preparations.
“The art plays a significant role in modern society nowadays,” he said.
Project director Vincent Tan lauded the exhibition held in collaboration with USM’s Global Archaeology Research Centre.
“This is a programme for final-year students from the Fine Art Department. Our theme this year, “Echoes of Time,” is linked to archaeology from the Bujang Valley and global archaeological studies,” he said.
“My hope is that this exhibition attracts public attention and helps people appreciate the art industry more and become more familiar with what we do.”
Also present were the School of the Arts dean, Prof Dr Muhizam Mustafa and the university’s museum director, Dr Tetriana Ahmad Fauzi.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian