Chung Chen Sun's Legacy Takes Spotlight At National Art Gallery Exhibition

KUALA LUMPUR, July 9 (Bernama) -- The enduring legacy of Chung Chen Sun, an iconic figure in Chinese ink painting, is being showcased through the Archive Project Exhibition: Chung Chen Sun, at the Portrait Gallery, National Art Gallery, from March 4 to Sept 1.

In a statement today, the National Art Gallery said the exhibition is the third in the Archive Project series, featuring a range of archival materials, including photographs, sketches, catalogues and interviews that highlight the artist’s creative journey.

“In addition to his signature Chinese ink works, the exhibition also features rarely seen oil and pastel paintings, reflecting the evolution of his artistic style throughout his career,” it said.

Chung, who founded the Malaysian Institute of Art (MIA), made significant contributions to painting and art education in Malaysia. This exhibition forms part of the National Art Gallery’s initiative to preserve, document and showcase the country’s artistic heritage to the public.

According to the National Art Gallery, the exhibition, which is open to the public free of charge, not only served as a historical reference but also enhanced understanding of Chung’s impact on the local art scene in the broader context of Malaysian history and culture.

“Interestingly, the exhibition is structured around Confucian philosophy as its main framework, with the theme divided into six segments that reflect the influence of Sanjiao (three teachings) moral values in Chung Chen Sun’s works and thoughts,” the statement said.

The main segments include National to International; Cultural and Artistic Exchanges Between Malaysia and China; and Modernisation of Ink Painting: A Fusion of Eastern and Western Arts, each offering visitors a clearer understanding of the exhibition’s overall narrative.

“This exhibition not only traces the artistic journey of a prominent figure, but also connects art, education and culture within a meaningful space,” the statement said.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the artistic and intellectual legacy of the figure through artefacts, narratives and an immersive exhibition experience.

Pengunjung berpeluang menyelami warisan seni dan intelektual tokoh berkenaan menerusi artifak, naratif dan pengalaman pameran yang mendalam. Masuk adalah percuma sepanjang pameran berlangsung.

-- BERNAMA