Untitled Document
Singapore Malaysia Chinese Seal-Carving, Calligraphy and Painting Exchange Exhibition

From May 4 to 11, 2008, SGM, Cao Tang Men Eastern Arts Society Malaysia and Singapore Siaw-Tao Chinese Seal Carving, Calligraphy and Painting Society jointly organised the “Singapore- Malaysia Chinese Seal-Carving, Calligraphy and Painting Exchange Exhibition” at the Wisma Kebudayaan SGM. Tan Sri Dato' Michael Chen Wing Sum, former president of the Malaysian Senate, officiated at an opening ceremony on May 4.

Around 180 pieces of artworks were showcased in this exhibition comprising of outstanding seals, Chinese ink paintings and calligraphy. While Chinese traditional technique is employed in the works, some artists incorporated local customs and bright and unique Nanyang style. Many of them have shown creativity with the choice of unlikely subjects such as jackfruit, arowanas and the Indian kavadi.

 
President Cheah presents his calligraphy to SGM General Director for SGI President Ikeda   Malaysia-Singapore artists' calligraphy exchange

In conjunction with the exhibition, a series of cultural and art events took place at the venue. Feng Jun Hu, deputy director and secretary of China Guo Men Art and Calligraphy Association, spoke on the "Appreciation of Calligraphy and Painting" and "Knowledge on Archiving of Calligraphy and Painting." Malaysian and Singaporean artists held ink painting and calligraphy demonstrations.

At the exhibition opening on May 4, Cao Tang Men Eastern Arts Society presented a certificate of appreciation to SGI President Daisaku Ikeda recognising his efforts to promote culture, education and art exchanges that serve to contribute to world peace. SGM General Director Choo Kong Fei received a certificate from Society President Cheah Thien Soong on Mr Ikeda’s behalf. In addition, Cheah presented two of his calligraphies to SGI President Ikeda with phrases from the Lotus Sutra. Cheah explained that the thick ink used in writing these words shows its elegance, and the technique and style express the strong determination of SGI President Ikeda in creating peace. While the calligraphies embody the beauty of ancient elegance, strong yet gentle, vigorous but glossy, Cheah hopes that these will bring about a feeling of harmony, amiability and peace to the people.

Cao Tang Men Eastern Arts Society was founded to preserve Chinese traditional arts and promote the ink painting and seal-carving developed in Malaysia's diverse cultures. The society and SGM have worked together to put on exhibitions and public seminars six times to date.

Visitors at the exhibition