Young Artist Zulkefli Jais Presents 'Project Temporary Marking' At Gwangju Biennale 2024

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 8 (Bernama) -- The artwork of young artist Zulkefli Jais, titled "Project Temporary Marking," is currently showcased at the Asia Culture Centre in Gwangju and the Korea Foundation Gallery in Seoul, South Korea as part of the Gwangju Biennale 2024, which runs from today until Dec 1.

In a statement today, the National Art Gallery said Zulkefli's participation in the prestigious art event is a significant recognition for Malaysia, highlighting the advancement of Malaysian contemporary art and marking a notable achievement for Zulkefli, who has gained international acclaim.

'Project Temporary Marking,' which was previously exhibited at Menara Condong in Teluk Intan, Perak, features a collection of vests symbolising the tower as a landmark of the town.

"This artwork illustrates the intersection of the town's geography and history, deeply connected to Zulkefli Jais' personal memories as a native of Teluk Intan, Perak.

Each vest in the piece represents the emotions and memories of past disasters affecting the town's refugees, serving as a reminder that history often repeats itself," the statement read.

The National Art Gallery also noted that the artwork is accompanied by a six-minute, two-second documentary, which is shown repeatedly throughout the exhibition.

The documentary delves into the dark history surrounding Menara Condong, featuring a bell that rings every hour according to MYT (Malaysia Time) to offer a more profound understanding and appreciation of the artwork.

Earlier, the National Art Gallery reported that the Malaysian Pavilion, which showcases Zulkefli’s work, had been visited by MOTAC secretary-general Datuk Roslan Abdul Rahman, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Republic of Korea Datuk Mohd Zamruni Khalid, its director-general Amerrudin Ahmad, Asia Culture Centre (ACC) president Lee Kanghyun and MOTAC and the National Art Gallery senior officials.

In the statement, Amerrudin said the National Art Gallery views this as an opportunity to elevate local young artists to higher platforms.

He added that Zulkefli was chosen after a rigorous selection process in the Contemporary Young Talent (BMS) Competition, where he competed against numerous other candidates before being awarded the top prize.

“His participation in the Gwangju Biennale 2024 marks a significant milestone and boost for him. We hope this exposure will help him excel further as a promising young artist and enhance Malaysia’s international profile," he said.

-- BERNAMA