CJMY
Adding to the vibrancy of the renowned Gurney Drive area, IJM Perennial Development Sdn Bhd (IJMPD) has recently unveiled a captivating new sculpture called the ‘Luminous Pearl.’
This exquisite artwork, created by Syamirul Alif Shaharudin, a Master of Architecture student at Universiti Sains Malaysia, emerged as the winning entry in IJMPD’s Penang Urban Sculpture Programme.
Launched in April 2022 in conjunction with International Sculpture Day, this initiative aimed to nurture young local talents in the arts and contribute to the tourism scene in Penang.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, who graced the unveiling ceremony as the guest of honour, praised IJMPD for spearheading this commendable project. In his speech, Yeoh highlighted the significance of art in shaping a city’s identity and commended the sculpture’s ability to capture Penang’s essence as the Pearl of the Orient.
The Significance of the ‘Luminous Pearl’
Yeoh praised Syamirul Alif Shaharudin’s sculpture, the ‘Luminous Pearl,’ for its visual appeal and intellectual stimulation. The artwork not only captivates viewers with its aesthetic beauty but also symbolizes the essence of Penang as the Pearl of the Orient.
The ‘Luminous Pearl’ sculpture stands as a testament to Penang’s resilience and vibrant spirit, reflecting its ability to weather storms and embrace change. It symbolizes the state’s continuous evolution, emerging stronger and more vibrant than ever before.
Yeoh also emphasized the government’s commitment to the development of the local art industry and the promotion of Penang’s rich culture. He expressed his enthusiasm for future art projects similar to the Penang Urban Sculpture Programme and envisioned it as a signature event for the city.
The chairman further added, “Previously, I have also mentioned that we want to make it a policy that every developer in future developments must allocate a certain space for public art.”
Promoting local talent and cultivating creativity
To foster an appreciation for the winning artworks and provide further insight into the Penang Urban Sculpture Programme, the public is encouraged to visit The Light City‘s website. This platform offers an opportunity to explore the artistic achievements of local talents and learn more about the program’s objectives.
Penang State Art Gallery chairman Lee Khai and MOTAC Penang director Jonathan Freddy P. Bagang were among the distinguished guests present at the unveiling ceremony. Yeoh reiterated PETACE’s commitment to further developing the local art industry and promoting Penang’s unique culture.
Furthermore, Yeoh expressed his belief in the abundance of local talent and their potential to utilize art, particularly public art, to showcase the uniqueness of Penang.
He stated, “Public art such as sculpture is a powerful tool to represent our city’s identity, our people, culture, expression, and our vision.”
He expressed his hope for more remarkable art projects like the Penang Urban Sculpture Programme, encouraging IJM Perennial Development to organize this signature event annually to foster local talents and build a society infused with creativity.
The ‘Luminous Pearl’ sculpture stands as a testament to Penang’s artistic brilliance, inviting both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant art scene.
Source: Buletin Mutiara
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