
Joint exhibition at Kuching's Borneo Cultures Museum to feature Brunei, Sarawak artists
KUCHING (June 17): The Brunei-Sarawak Joint Art Exhibition on June 20-26 will bring together artists from Brunei Darussalam and Sarawak in a collaborative celebration of the beauty and heritage of Borneo.
Themed 'Neighbours in Heart, Friendship in Art', it will involve 64 artists, 18 of whom are from Brunei.
Featuring 99 paintings, the exhibition at the Borneo Cultures Museum here will showcase a rich tapestry of identity, tradition, and contemporary expression through visual art.
'The beauty of the land and its people, the lush flora and fauna, the vibrant culture and enduring heritage, and the evocative sounds and atmosphere of the region – all are captured in these artistic reflections of the land's essence.
'Held in the beautiful setting of Kuching, Sarawak, the exhibition is inspired by the reflections of the rivers, the boats that glide across their surfaces, the scattered buildings along the banks, and the forests, hills, and mountains that shape the landscape. These elements evoke the historical spirit of the land – the glory of its past,' said a press release from the organisers.
The press release said the bustling energy of modern Kuching will also offer a reflection of contemporary Sarawak, showcasing how tradition and progress coexist.
The landmark exhibition is organised by the Sarawak Artists Society with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Brunei Darussalam; Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Brunei (Statob); and Sarawak Museum Department.
Complementing the exhibition are vibrant, community-driven programmes, including art talks and live demonstrations.
Separately, organisers said the cross-border initiative lays a meaningful foundation for the future Sarawak State Art Gallery — a proposed cultural institution aimed at preserving, developing, and promoting the state's visual arts.
As Sarawak's visual arts sector continues to gain national and international momentum, the statement said the need for a permanent, dedicated art space is increasingly clear.
The statement said a State Art Gallery would serve as an inclusive hub for exhibitions, education, research, and creative development.
'It would support local artists, nurture talent, document cultural narratives, and expand public engagement with the arts.
'Building on the momentum of 'Neighbours in Heart, Friendship in Art', this proposed institution reflects a long-term investment in cultural infrastructure and creative economy development,' added the statement.
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