GEORGE TOWN, June 4 – Penang Art District (PAD) is proud to announce the launch of PASU, a solo exhibition by Aqim Adil, winner of the Spotlight competition organized by the Penang Art District last December. The exhibition will be held at Blank Canvas 2, located at Lorong Argus, George Town, Pulau Pinang, from June 3rd to June 25th, 2023. PASU, Aqim Adil’s solo exhibition, is a testament to his artistic prowess, showcasing a collection of visually captivating artworks that bridge the gap between the tangible and the intangible.
Each charcoal drawing within the exhibition features the ubiquitous pot, or ‘pasu’ in Malay, symbolizing space and representing a liminal place between the safety of home and the untamed wilderness. Aqim Adil’s artwork provides a unique perspective on dwelling, allowing the tensions of daily life to find expression within the confines of the pot. The collection presented in PASU encompasses a wide range of subjects and themes, predominantly derived from the artist’s personal experiences and emotions.
Aqim Adil’s masterful use of symbols and metaphors adds depth and complexity to each piece, inviting viewers to delve deeper into the hidden meanings and embark on a journey of interpretation and discovery. Aqim Adil, born in Kuala Lumpur in 1993, pursued his education in Graphic Design at Universiti Selangor (UNISEL) before furthering his studies in Fine Art at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). His art predominantly features two-dimensional, monochromatic visuals on canvas, executed with dry media such as charcoal and graphite, which he skillfully employs in his creations.
Through surrealist compositions that incorporate human anatomy, flora, and seemingly incidental everyday objects, Agim’s artwork reflects his keen observations and interpretations of society. Each element in his compositions plays a significant role, capturing the curiosity of viewers and prompting them to contemplate the visual metaphors embedded within his work. The launch event featured a speech by YB Yeoh Soon Hin, Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy, who expressed his admiration for Aqim Adil’s unique artistic expression.
YB Yeoh Soon Hin highlighted the Penang State Government’s commitment to supporting young and emerging artists, emphasizing the importance of platforms and opportunities like Penang Art District in nurturing talent and enriching the local art scene. The speech also served as an announcement for the opening of the 2023 Spotlight Art Competition, inviting artists from all over Malaysia to submit their artworks for a chance to participate in a mentorship program and showcase their works in a solo exhibition.
The Penang State Government aims to further promote the growth and development of the local art industry, positioning Penang as a thriving art and cultural hub in Southeast Asia and beyond. PASU by Aqim Adil invites viewers to explore the interconnectedness of our life places, our identity, and our relationship with nature. The exhibition promises to be a thought-provoking experience, as Agim’s artwork transcends boundaries and invites viewers to contemplate the profound meanings embedded within his visual narratives.
