Brushstrokes and Ink Charm: A decade of alumni artistry unveiled

On 24 February 2024, the Pro Art and Frame Gallery in Petaling Jaya hummed with anticipation as esteemed guests and alumni convened for the spectacular debut of the “Brushstrokes and Ink Charm”: Alumni 10-Year Collection Art Exhibition (丹青墨韵：校友10年珍藏书画义展开幕典礼). Organised by the Alumni Association of UTAR Department of Chinese Studies, the exhibition unveiled a breathtaking compilation of artworks meticulously curated over a decade by talented alumni artists.

The event commenced with a warm welcome extended by UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, expressing gratitude to all attendees for their unwavering support. Prof Dato’ Ewe said, “This exhibition not only celebrates artistic excellence but also embodies the deep affection our alumni hold for their alma mater and their love for Chinese culture.”

The exhibition also served as a platform for fundraising initiatives aimed at supporting scholarship students of UTAR Department of Chinese Studies and operational funds for the UTAR Hospital. “These initiatives underscore our commitment to education and social responsibility,” stated the president, emphasising the University’s dedication to nurturing global-minded individuals with innovative capabilities.

The esteemed guest, DUN Chenderiang YB Choong Shin Heng, was invited to host the opening ceremony. He expressed his gratitude to the enthusiastic and kind-hearted artists and alumni who generously donated their precious collections of paintings, calligraphy, and woodcuts to support this art charity sale. He said, “UTAR Hospital, which provides comprehensive traditional and Western medical services to the people of Kampar, will benefit the residents in my area as well. I urge the public to generously support this art charity sale to contribute to the operational funds of UTAR Hospital.”

The opening ceremony featured a brief unveiling of selected artworks and a group photograph session with guests, including UTAR Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong, UTAR Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) Dean Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei, ICS Deputy Dean (R&D and Postgraduate Programmes) Assoc Prof Dr Chin Chong Foh, Chancellery Head Mr Lim Swea Jen, The Alumni Association of UTAR Department of Chinese Studies President Ms Wong Foong Kiew, Event Director Ms Chung Hwee Chang, and the exhibition’s chief organiser and many more.

As the event unfolded, guests were invited to explore the exhibition hall and admire the diverse range of artworks on display.

The "Brushstrokes and Ink Charm" exhibition will remain open to the public until 10 March 2024.

YB Chong delivering his speech

Prof Dato’ Ewe (left) expressing gratitude to all attendees for their unwavering support

 

Prof Dato’ Ewe (second from left) and YB Chong (second from right) unveiling the plaques for the exhibition

Ms Chung explaining the arts to Prof Dato’ Ewe and YB Chong

Exhibition poster