‘The Continuum: 3 Generasi' honours legacy of Raphael Scott Ahbeng, nurtures future of Sarawak art

Borneo Post

23-07-2025

Sylvester (left) explains one of his paintings at Hoan Gallery. With him is Faizuan. – Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (July 24): Bidayuh artist Sylvester Jussem hopes the legacy of his late mentor, the renowned Raphael Scott Ahbeng, will continue to inspire future generations through the 'The Continuum: 3 Generasi' art exhibition.
Currently running at La Promenade Mall's Hoan Gallery, the exhibition features works by three artists: the late Raphael, Sylvester himself, and Dr Mohamad Faizuan Mat, a mentee of Sylvester.
'This exhibition, jointly presented by the State Library and Hoan Gallery as their second major showcase of 2025, celebrates Sarawak's dynamic visual arts scene through the works of three generations,' Sylvester said when met at the gallery yesterday.
Approximately 40 artworks are on display, with an estimated collective value of RM200,000.
Sylvester also expressed gratitude to Hoan Gallery for providing a platform to showcase their creative journeys, describing the exhibition as an important opportunity for Sarawak's art community to engage with the public.
'It also presents an opportunity to engage with researchers, students, and art enthusiasts on visual arts and cultural heritage,' he said.
Noting the growing interest in visual arts in Kuching, he added that the exhibition offers a valuable space not only to showcase their work but also to connect with a wider audience.
'We hope this momentum will lead to more exhibitions and increased support for local artists in the future.'
Sylvester, who had studied under Raphael from a young age, described the late artist as a pioneering figure known for his bold experimentation and refusal to be confined by a single artistic approach.
He noted that Raphael's work spanned oils, ceramics, caricatures, figurative art, and abstraction, reflecting a deep engagement with Sarawak's natural and cultural landscapes.
'He began his creative journey through writing and believed that writing itself was a form of drawing.
'He was also a teacher who welcomed feedback and encouraged dialogue. His spirit continues to inspire us,' said Sylvester.
He also emphasised the importance of expanding gallery spaces to support emerging Sarawakian artists, particularly those working in installation, projection, and multimedia art.
Highlighting the increasingly interdisciplinary nature of the local art scene, Sylvester noted that artistic collaborations now often extend to professionals from fields such as architecture and engineering.
'Art is evolving, and we need more space for contemporary expression to accommodate a growing number of artists.
'It is also encouraging to see creatives from different backgrounds joining the conversation – the art community is becoming more inclusive and dynamic.'
'The Continuum: 3 Generasi' features some of Raphael's most iconic works, including The Mountainous District of Bau (2010) and Santubong (2014), which reflect his signature style and deep reverence for Sarawak's landscape.
Sylvester's contributions, such as Ruyank'ng and Rasunk'ng of the Ring Ladies, Kampung Semban (2023), incorporate abstract representations of traditional attire, ritual, and symbolism rooted in Bumiputera identity.
Meanwhile, Faizuan brings an experimental and contemporary perspective to the exhibition.
His abstract works – influenced by natural forces such as tidal waves and wind – aim to convey emotional resonance through motion and layered texture.
'This exhibition symbolises continuity and dialogue between generations. It honours the past while paving the way for future voices in the arts,' said Sylvester.
The exhibition is open to the public from tomorrow (July 25) to Aug 14, and offers a series of artist-led talks, live demonstrations, and interactive sessions aimed to enhance public appreciation for Sarawak's visual arts.
For further information, visit hoangallery.com or follow @HoanArtGallery on social media. art exhibition hoan gallery lead Sylvester Jussem The Continuum: 3 Generasi