Developing art in Southeast Asia

UNITED Overseas Bank (UOB) recently announced that an Indonesian artist has won the UOB Southeast Asian Painting of the Year for the third consecutive year. With Gatot Indrajati's win, Indonesia is the first country to be recognised with the competition's top award three times in a row.
The 36-year-old artist's winning relief acrylic painting, Right or Wrong My Home, resonated strongly with a panel of established industry experts from Southeast Asia. The judges commended his innovative use of wood, a medium for traditional art in Indonesia, and paint to create a visually compelling and contemporary art work.
They observed Indrajati's intelligent treatment of composition and layering to create a range of perspective in the painting which emphasised a sense of space while reflecting a typical Southeast Asian cityscape. The judges further noted that his application of light-hearted iconography invites the audience to contemplate the artist's intent behind the visual elements.
“I was inspired by the passion that Indonesians have for their country and how that attitude is such an inherent part of the Indonesian identity. Indonesians also have a wry sense of humour and we often use humour as a way to demonstrate the love for our country. I wanted my painting to portray that passion and patriotism. I am extremely honoured to represent Indonesia on the regional stage with this award,” Indrajati said.
The annual UOB Painting of the Year competition is held across four Southeast Asian countries. In Singapore, it is the longest-running art contest and is also the bank's flagship art programme. UOB's focus on championing art as a key pillar of its corporate social responsibility programme began in Singapore more than 40 years ago.
Wee Ee Cheong, UOB Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer said that the bank remains committed to supporting the development of art in Southeast Asia for the long-term.
“We recognise the important role art plays in strengthening the fabric of a society. It connects people and communities, celebrates cultures and enriches lives. What is also distinctive about the UOB art programme is our focus on giving back. Beyond nurturing and profiling artistic talents, we also connect our artist alumni and our community partners to bring art appreciation to underprivileged and special needs children,” he said.
Yim Yen Sum was presented the Malaysia 2016 UOB Painting of the Year for her artwork titled The Floating Castle. She impressed the panel of judges with her delicate needlework which conveyed the fragility of cultural traditions and how easily they could disintegrate if they were not given the proper care and attention.
The winning mixed medium artwork is of a traditional Chinese house embroidered on a sheet of gauze. It was chosen from among four finalists in the Established Artist category.
“I hope my art will highlight the shared responsibility of a community to preserve and to nurture age-old customs for future generations. I am honoured to receive this award and I look forward to representing Malaysia on the regional stage,” Yim said.