23/09/2026
On 12 September, artist and veteran journalist Lim Jiang Sin joined us at Penang Institute for an artist sharing session held in conjunction with FOR OUR STATE, a contemporary exhibition bringing together seven artists from across Malaysia.
Drawing from his experience in both journalism and art, Lim reflected on his artistic journey, the sources of inspiration behind his work, and the process of translating ideas into visual form. He also explored the mechanics of staging a hybrid exhibition, considering how web stories, social media, a printed catalogue and a physical showcase can work together to create different ways of engaging with an audience.
For FOR OUR STATE, Lim exhibits four mixed-media works that reimagine the symbols found on Nyonya porcelain using photography, ink and pencil. The Eight Auspicious Symbols, including the lotus, fish, parasol and Dharma wheel, draw attention to the multicultural exchanges embedded in Peranakan material culture, as well as values that resonate with the state anthem.
The artist sharing session forms part of FOR OUR STATE, a contemporary photography exhibition featuring seven artists from across Malaysia, including Sarawak. At its heart is an enduring connection to place, identity and heritage, explored through different artistic perspectives and interpretations of Penang.
The exhibition runs from 12–27 September 2026 at Penang Institute, 10 Jalan Brown, 10350 George Town, Penang.
FOR OUR STATE takes its title from Penang’s state anthem, Untuk Negeri Kita, composed by 2nd Lt Awaluddin Zainal Alam, son of legendary broadcaster Datuk Zainal Alam. The anthem was selected through a state competition in 1972.
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Friday: 8.30am–4.00pm
