Things That Move exhibition at The Godown
Malaysia is a treasure trove of wildlife, thanks to our tropical climate that allows for native species to thrive. Unfortunately, their indispensable role in maintaining our biodiversity lacks attention due to modernisation and the resulting loss of natural habitats.
Shedding light on these challenges is Gene Eu’s Things That Move exhibition at The Godown art centre in KL. Open from now till 31st March 2024, the free-entry exhibition features a collection of local wildlife animal paintings done in calligraphy sumi ink.
A collection of local wildlife mammals in sumi-ink paintings
Nestled within the The Godown building, Eu’s collection of 25 paintings are bathed in the soft glow of natural light, offering a serene reprieve from the urban frenzy of KL just outside.
Known for his use of sumi ink, which is delicately applied upon textured paper with a dry brush, Eu skilfully captures the essence of movement and emotion in each animal, evoking a sense of silent vitality frozen in time. Take for instance, his portrayal of Asian Elephants, where a parent tenderly interacts with its playful offspring – their bond palpable even to the observer upon closer examination, fostering an unexpected connection between art and audience.
His simple yet captivating array of wildlife portraits, including the elusive Stump-tailed Macaque and the Masked Palm Civet, invites both art connoisseurs and nature enthusiasts alike to reflect upon the natural habitat in which trees are sheltering homes in the forest.
Amidst the menagerie of wildlife depictions, poignant reminders of conservation urgency emerge. This is shown in the striking gaze of the Sambar Deer and the Clouded Leopard, both emblematic of species teetering on the brink of endangerment.
Reflecting on Malaysia’s rich biodiversity, Eu tells TheSmartLocal Malaysia, “Our land is a treasure trove of animal and nature diversity, akin to a single American state harbouring an astonishing array of 7-8 feline species in just one region”.
Gene Eu’s first solo exhibition in Malaysia
At his first solo art exhibition in Malaysia, Eu celebrates the charm of our nation’s wildlife mammals. The exhibition is titled Things That Move, a translation from the Chinese word dongwu meaning animals, to describe the literal things that move rather than the things that grow.
Having spent most of his time on the sun-kissed shores of Santa Monica, California, Eu’s artworks have graced the walls of esteemed galleries such as WAL ART and Art All Ways. With an affinity for both art and nature, his journey took him from the bustling cityscapes to the idyllic countryside of North Carolina.
There, amidst the tranquillity of rural life, he learned to embrace agriculture and the beauty of the natural world – a theme that often shows up in his art.
Since his homecoming in 2020, he has taken on the role of a farmer, overseeing an organic farm in Bentong, Pahang. Surrounded by chickens, ducks, and flourishing fruit trees, he finds inspiration to capture the essence of nature in his artwork, some of which are displayed here.
Marvel at Malaysia’s endangered animals at Things That Move exhibition
Living amidst towering skyscrapers can often lead us to overlook the profound importance of nature and its abundant offerings. As such, it is through artistic expression that we are prompted to pause and reflect upon the intrinsic value of Mother Earth and our cherished wildlife.
If you find yourself in the city, head to The Godown, where Eu’s collection of artworks serve as a poignant reminder of endangered animals. They prompt us to contemplate the future of both the animals and humanity as a whole.
Venue: The Godown, 7, 11 Lorong Ampang, Off Jalan Bukit Nanas, 50250, Kuala Lumpur
Date: 14th-31st March 2024
Time: Tue-Sun 12pm-6pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: The Godown KL’s website | Facebook | Instagram
For other things to do in KL, read 9 craft workshops in KL & Selangor and 13 free things to do in KL.
Photography by Yusintha.
Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local Malaysia