There’s a certain romantic quality that just, clings, to art. That quiet thrill as you meander through an exhibition hall, your gaze lingering on pieces that spark something within you, a flicker of thought or a whisper of feeling. It can also be a form of therapy – this slow appreciation. A meditative stroll, offering a pocket of time for genuine reflection.
But it’s not just that; art can also be a joyous escapade, a delightful outing shared with friends or loved ones, finding simple joy in the subtle narratives woven into each creation.
Introducing the ROJAK exhibition, currently gracing the walls of ZHAN Art Space in Jaya One. This intriguing showcase, a collaborative effort between the talented artists Nigel Sense and Jean Tong, is ongoing until the 27th of April, so there’s still time to check it out and immerse yourself in this quirky display of arts.
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But what exactly is this ROJAK exhibition? At its heart, it’s a vibrant collection of acrylic paintings on canvas, painted by artist Nigel Sense. However, this isn’t a solitary affair. Adding another layer that plays with the senses are the accompanying soundscapes crafted by Jean Tong. These sounds are truly alluring, gently coaxing visitors to delve deeper into the artworks. It invites visitors to eavesdrop on the fleeting conversations of strangers — which range from bland to profound. Imagine standing before a canvas, the brushstrokes dancing before your eyes, while a subtle soundscape washes over you; enriching your perception and stirring your imagination.
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Sense himself has shed light on the exhibition’s rather curious name: ROJAK. For those unfamiliar, Rojak is a popular Malaysian dish, a delightful (for most) medley of fruits, vegetables, and a sweet and spicy peanut sauce. Interestingly, Sense confesses he isn’t the biggest fan of this culinary staple, which is precisely why he chose it as the exhibition’s title. It serves as a personal challenge, a playful nod to those who suggest the key to appreciating rojak is simply to try it more. This sentiment, it turns out, resonates deeply with his artistic ethos – a metaphor for persistent effort, to keep trying, striving and experimenting.
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This quote encapsulates the very essence of ROJAK. It’s a celebration of life in all its glorious imperfection, finding beauty not in flawless presentation but in the unvarnished reality of existence. This philosophy is mirrored in Sense’s abstract works, pieces that invite contemplation, that nudge your mind to wander and interpret. Often bearing seemingly mundane titles – such as “Slippery Footpath” or “Strong Coffee Plastic Chairs” – Sense playfully twists and transforms them into something altogether more untamed, intriguing, and ultimately, fun. It’s a reflection of the exhibition’s core theme: uncovering the beauty that lies within the unpolished, the unexpected, the wonderfully messy nature of life. So, why not take a stroll down to ZHAN Art Space and allow the “Rojak” exhibition to offer you a fresh perspective on the art of seeing?
Getting there:
