Publika Art Show 2019

That’s a scary one to start off with

The White Box at Publika is not a stranger to the local art scene. The space is utilised well, showcasing local artiste, and it was refreshing to see such fervour in putting forward local talent to the forefront. Their social media presence could have been better, but I am always on the lookout with what they have in store.

The space was big enough to roam around in

For the Merdeka slash Malaysia Day period, they hosted the Publika Art Show. Tying in with the Merdeka spirit, they themed the works on the “People of Malaysia” with emphasis on the “semangat” or spirit.

Some were more relatable to others

Saloma

When I attended the gallery just after Merdeka Day, the installations were still being erected, but I was free to roam the space. And to be honest, I was struggling to find a common thread to what was being shown. Maybe, the works were still being assembled, giving it the benefit of the doubt. Yes, there was no conformity to a particular narrative which I was able to appreciate.

Reading on the internet, I learned that the show combined features from three galleries - Fergania Art, Segaris Art Center and Artemis Art. I am first to admit that I am not familiar with their body of work. Or maybe, the curator intentionally put everything together - more of a “rojak” kind of thing. I can’t help wondering if I would enjoy it more once all the installations were put up ... And I could do with a booklet to guide me through. Anyhow, I wish the gallery the best of luck!