THE animal plant sculptures – ‘Animal Kingdom in the City’ – set at the Esplanade are the latest crowd-pullers attracting both the locals and tourists.
Passers-by seemed to be drawn by the beautiful sculptures and paused to check on them curiously.
This is one of the initiatives by the state government under its newly-launched programme, ‘Penang Arts Week 2019,’ to promote arts in the state.
The visitors were busily taking pictures despite the scorching weather in the afternoon, and when asked regarding the sculptures as well as the ‘Penang Arts Week 2019’, this was what they said:
(right) Thom Atiyah, 38, insurance agent (London)
“This looks ‘clever’, good piece of work. I have seen something like this in Singapore just a few days back when I visited the country.
“Over in Malaysia, this is the first time I am seeing such an art. It is good that the state is promoting arts through this manner.”
Okaz Abdullah Husin, 43, businessman (Kelantan)
“What a great attraction! I am here for holidays with my family. We just arrived here, my kids are fascinated by the sculptures.
“Penang government should be commended for coming up with programmes such as this. We will definitely support if they plan to have this annually.
“Just one thing that I would like to add, please do more promotion of the Penang Arts Week 2019. This is because many are not aware of it, including me.”
Syed Azhar Syed Ahmad, 43, admin executive
“When I look at the ‘green’ sculpture, it gives a feel of nature. A blend of artistic expression and nature which is very captivating.
“This is something constructive and can instil the appreciation for arts and nature. It also helps us to appreciate one’s talent.”
Tourist from Holland who only wants to be known as ‘Mr Holland’, technician
“I think this would have required a lot of work. Kudos to the craftsmanship, it’s unique!
“Penang has a lot to offer to the visitors and having a special week just to champion ‘arts’ is a good move.
“I think, I will come again at night to take more photographs of the sculptures.”
Kang Jun Jie, 29, Penang
“If the sculpture display comes with a theme, it would be great. For instance, the topic of wild animals protection or go green awareness.
“Most of the events organised by the Penang government are done well, and they should keep it up.
“The only area of improvement would be the promotion of the activities with a distinctive theme which would attract the public more.”
Tourists – Dain, 53 (left) & Samantha, 47 (Melbourne, Australia)
“We are here in Penang for the first time, it is a beautiful place with interesting culture. For instance, the Harmony Street where you can find places of worship of different religions in the same vicinity.
“The park here is beautiful, so are the heritage buildings around it. On top of that, these amazing sculptures. We love it!
“I think the effort put forth by the state government through ‘Penang Arts Week 2019’ can instil the love for art among the people here. At the same time leading to the discovery of new talents.”
Penang Arts Week 2019 is being held at various location in Penang starting from March 24 to 31
Check out the website for further info.
https://mypenang.gov.my/events/all-events/208/
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Law Suun Ting