PENANG’S art scene continues to flourish, with local artists enjoying increasing opportunities to showcase their talents and creativity, says state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai.
Delivering his speech at the opening of artist Shen Ying’s exhibition at Straits Cafe in George Town, Wong said he had attended three art exhibitions in Penang this month alone, reflecting the vibrancy of the state’s cultural landscape.
“Penang’s art scene is very lively because our artists have platforms to present their works and opportunities to showcase their talents,” he said, adding that exhibitions such as Shen’s not only promote artistic expression but also contribute to the state’s growing creative economy.
Wong said the environment in which an artist lives often influences their creative expression, citing Shen’s residence at the foot of Penang Hill as an example.
“Every day when she opens her door, she sees mountains and trees. Nature is part of her daily life and this is reflected in her paintings, where green tones feature prominently,” he said.
He described Shen as a Penang-born artist known for her expressive freehand style and ability to work across multiple mediums, including Chinese ink painting, oil painting, acrylic and mixed media.
According to Wong, her artistic journey has been shaped by studies and training in Malaysia, Singapore and China, allowing her to develop a distinctive artistic language of her own.
Wong also highlighted Shen’s versatility as an artist, noting that acrylic painting had become an effective medium for her to capture impressions and experiences more spontaneously, especially while travelling.
“Her works are bright, cheerful and filled with positive energy. Through her paintings, she shares her appreciation of nature and her optimistic outlook on life with the audience,” he said.
The exhibition features 33 artworks showcasing Shen’s exploration of nature, landscapes and everyday experiences through various artistic mediums. Admission is free and the exhibition will run for two weeks.
Meanwhile, Shen said many of her paintings are inspired by scenes encountered in daily life, which she later reinterprets through her imagination.
“I will look at what I see and use my imagination to create a work that I like. When I return home, I will paint it immediately. The composition is entirely my own,” she said.
Shen said she remains passionate about Chinese ink painting but began exploring acrylic painting after discovering it offered greater flexibility for outdoor and on-site work.
She recalled gaining confidence in the medium during an international exhibition in Kuala Lumpur, where a visitor immediately expressed interest in purchasing a landscape painting she had completed on the spot.
“That gave me tremendous confidence because someone appreciated my fast, semi-abstract acrylic style,” she said.
Shen has since participated in numerous exhibitions and workshops, with her works collected by individuals, businesses and galleries. Last year, she represented Malaysia at an international art competition in Mongolia, where she won second place among more than 150 acrylic entries.
“My paintings are filled with joyful elements. I hope people can find happiness, good health and blessings through my art. In the end, life is about simplicity and contentment,” she said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian