THE vibrant pieces of artwork crafted by Malaysian artists hold tremendous potential to not only enrich our cultural landscape but also to generate sustainable income and livelihoods for these artists.
However, from a conventional perspective, careers in the arts are frequently misunderstood and underappreciated, rendering them unappealing due to the challenges often encountered by our artists.
Recognising this reality and the need to cultivate holistic artistic talent, Ekuiti Nasional Berhad (Ekuinas), through its corporate social responsibility arm, ILTIZAM, has introduced the inaugural ILTIZAM Seni Art Residency Programme, aimed at providing space and opportunities for artistic growth.
This six-month art residency programme was created to empower young talent, particularly those from the underprivileged Bumiputera community, who are determined to build their careers as artists.
"ILTIZAM Seni is designed to assist new graduates in self-development, honing a diverse set of skills (besides artistic talent) critical in building a sustainable career as an artist.
"We take a comprehensive approach in their development, providing guidance in financial management, personal profiling and branding, presentation skills, and communication skills, all of which are essential foundations for success in an artistic career and in life," said Hizwani Hassan, Director of Stakeholders' Interest at Ekuinas.
In October last year, ILTIZAM Seni selected seven young Bumiputera graduates in the field of fine arts (painting and sculpture) from local higher education institutions.
Hailing from Kedah, Selangor, Johor, and Sabah, each artist brings with them their own distinct artistic styles and influences, which imbue their pieces with diverse styles ranging from still life, self-portraiture, Japanese pop culture, and pop art.
They receive a monthly allowance, accommodation, and all art supplies required, along with self-development training and art workshops.
The self-development training, conducted in collaboration with Coach-2-Success (C2S), aims to equip the artists with the confidence, self-esteem and competitive edge necessary to thrive in their artistic careers. Additionally, they benefit from mentorship provided by a prominent artist within the Malaysian art scene.
This unique art residency programme is designed in collaboration with Galeri Puteh, a local art gallery, offering space for all ILTIZAM Seni resident artists to showcase their collection of artworks in May.
This exhibition will be open to the public, and all artworks are for sale. The proceeds from the sale of these artworks will provide them with a sound financial footing. Coupled with their personal branding in the art space, this will give their artistic careers a significant boost.
"We hope ILTIZAM Seni will serve not only as a stepping stone, but also as a transformative journey in their artistic careers. By providing them a platform for expression, we aim to inspire them to carve their names and elevate their profiles in the local art industry," Hizawani elaborated.
Among the artists is Ridhwan Yusof, a 27-year-old from Bukit Mertajam, Penang, who has been immersed in the world of art since his primary school days. With the guidance of his supportive teachers since then, he has diligently refined his skills and graduated with a Fine Arts degree.
"Participating in the ILTIZAM Seni residency programme was truly an enriching experience. I had the opportunity to connect with a vibrant community of artists. We review each other's artwork and provide constructive feedback, share life stories and exchange artistic visions.
"This supportive environment has not only fostered my personal growth, but also cultivated my development as an artist. It provided me with the opportunity to experiment with new mediums, which I wouldn't have been able to afford otherwise.
"Additionally, the dedicated workspace provided ample space and privacy, enabling me to fully immerse myself in my artistic practice," says Ridhwan, reflecting on his experience in the programme.
Fudhail Said, 27, from Jitra, Kedah was introduced to the world of art at a tender age and decided to pursue this passion after obtaining a degree in Fine Arts.
"Working in a group setting has been a unique challenge. It pushed me outside my comfort zone, but I am grateful for the experience. I got to practice and improve my communication and presentation skills.
"The financial literacy training was especially helpful in planning my career and goals. This programme has opened a new chapter in my artistic journey. I am glad for the opportunity to work alongside diverse artists, they have enriched my perspective. The financial support and encouraging environment has empowered me to create art with greater confidence and capability."
Alongside this journey with them is Dr Jalaini Abu Hassan, a renowned contemporary artist as well as a Professor of Fine Arts, who is the mentor for ILTIZAM Seni.
He is well respected in the art industry and personally enjoys exploring materials and various art mediums, all inspired by current affairs, interpreted through his own personal experiences and history.
"This art residency programme is not tied to any academic structure thus giving the artists freedom to explore and stretch their creativity organically. The studio is in an inspiring environment, with lots of space and strategically located away from the hustle and bustle of city life thus giving them the opportunity to focus their attention solely on art creation.
"Besides creativity, the artists should possess technical proficiency and communication skills to effectively market themselves and promote their artwork. They should take knowledge seriously in the context of art-making, encompassing a broad understanding of history, philosophy, and appreciation for the works of others, all of which are essential for the growth of an artist. Ultimately, strive to be a knowledgeable artist," Jalaini added.
Hizwani concluded, "Ekuinas' intention is to foster a creative ecosystem that is sustainable in Malaysia and is able to compete at the global level.
"Ekuinas is committed to supporting the development of arts and heritage given its potential in economic generation for the country, and the industry's ability to attract investors and tourists," he said.
ILTIZAM Seni stands as a flagship programme within ILTIZAM's Community pillar, alongside initiatives like the ILTIZAM Advance and Catalyst Progrannes, which foster entrepreneur development within the Entrepreneurship pillar, and the Professional Development Programme (ILTIZAM PDP) for unemployed graduates under the Education pillar.
All ILTIZAM initiatives focus on sustainable socio-economic improvement for the Bumiputera community.
