Together with National Art Gallery, Malaysian artists aim to stencil evolution of local graffiti scene

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 — Emy Falizal Mohd Faidzul, 35, has dabbled in graffiti for two decades — at first spraying his paint illegally, before eventually taking on commercial projects as the art form received public acceptance.

When met by Malay Mail yesterday at the National Art Gallery, he could be seen spraying his can on a white canvas while highlighting the importance of providing proper spaces for graffiti art.

“When there is no designated space, that’s when artists may resort to vandalising public places,” he said.

Emy said his experiences abroad in countries like Dubai, India and Australia have made him aware of the contrasting acceptance of graffiti in those cultures compared to Malaysia.

“The culture in these countries are different, they are more accepting but in Malaysia it is not like that. However, I think over the years the public’s perception has changed a lot,” he said.

Happening from yesterday until today, the National Art Gallery is hosting an event called “Out for Fame” in conjunction with its 65th anniversary this year as part of its initiative to support local graffiti artists in changing the public’s minds.

The graffiti art exhibition breaks free from the confines of traditional art spaces, embracing the raw, unapologetic nature of street art and redefines the concept of an art gallery, transforming it into an immersive experience where visitors can witness the power and vitality of graffiti firsthand.

Upon entering the exhibition space, visitors are instantly enveloped by a riot of vibrant colours that adorn the walls. From bold, eye-catching hues to subtle gradients, the murals burst with life and energy, reflecting the diverse palette of the urban landscape.

Over the two days, 65 local and Singaporean graffiti artists are joining a “jam session” to create collaborative artworks — a testament to their collective will to elevate the art form.

Local graffiti artists join a 'jam session' at the 'Out for Fame' exhibition in National Art Gallery. July 15, 2023. — Picture by Shathana Kasinathan

From vandalism to space for expression

While graffiti has its roots in ancient times, the contemporary form originated from New York youths in the 1970s, mostly African Americans. Together with rapping, DJ-ing and breakdancing, graffiti forms one of the four pillars of hip-hop culture.

In Malaysia, artists met by Malay Mail at the gallery said that the scene has only been around for roughly 30 years, but it has now reached the status of a subculture where artists have found their own space of self-expression.

Among them is Cloakwork, 32, a well-known graffiti artist whose vibrant works have captivated the attention of urban dwellers.

“Graffiti has long been a controversial topic in Malaysia. Some people see it as vandalism, while others see it as a form of art. I hope that with the growing passion for graffiti, people will soon accept it as an art,” he said.

Meanwhile, artist KOS, 31, was seen doing a simple lettering mural on a white canvas while saying that everyone’s self-expression through art is different.

“Different artists have their own unique style. Some prefer lettering, while others focus on painting characters. It entirely depends on the artist. This is my style, I like doing this,” he said.

Speaking to Malay Mail, artist Newba, 40, acknowledged that graffiti’s roots lie in vandalism, but stressed the transformative power it has undergone over the years.

“It’s all in the perception of viewers. Graffiti has evolved into an art form. Graffiti artists are reshaping the art scene,” he said.

“In recent years, there has been a growing movement to legitimise graffiti as a form of art, and a new database is helping to lead the way.”

Newba is part of Writersblock, a non-profit organisation that supports and promotes the work of graffiti artists in Malaysia, that is one of the organisers of this weekend’s event.

Local graffiti artists join a 'jam session' at the 'Out for Fame' exhibition in National Art Gallery. July 15, 2023. — Picture by Shathana Kasinathan

Documenting evolution of Malaysian graffiti

To document this development, the gallery has collaborated with the local scene to establish the Malaysian Graffiti Artist Database (Magad) to record the works of nearly 100 graffiti artists, creating a comprehensive database that can be accessed by researchers, curators, and the wider community.

The first edition of Magad was presented in 2018 followed by the second in 2021, and the third volume was presented yesterday.

The database not only serves as a documentation tool but also acts as an archive, preserving the history and evolution of Malaysian graffiti art. Prominent names such as Asmoe Roc, Abdulrashade, Pakey One and SnakeTwo are among the graffiti artists involved in the project.

When met yesterday, MyCreative Ventures chairman Datuk Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that it provides an essential platform for the development and recognition of graffiti art in Malaysia.

“Magad is a significant step towards promoting a deeper understanding of graffiti and fostering its growth within the artistic community,” he said at the official launch of the database. “By providing opportunities for interaction and education, this programme helps dispel negative perceptions surrounding graffiti and encourages the public to view it as a valid form of artistic expression,” he added.

Chairman of MyCreative Ventures, Datuk Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik during the launching of the Malaysian Graffiti Artist Database in National Art Gallery. July 15, 2023. — Picture by Miera Zulyana

Bakhtiar pointed out that Malaysian graffiti artists have now started to leave their marks in international programmes such as the Shanghai World Expo Pavilion in China, and the graffiti installations in the Karama District of Dubai in 2016.

He also said that this weekend’s event enables graffiti enthusiasts and the general public to engage with and appreciate this increasingly popular medium.

“By providing opportunities for interaction and education, this programme helps dispel negative perceptions surrounding graffiti and encourages the public to view it as a valid form of artistic expression,” he said.

The first day yesterday ended with a musical show that included local hip-hop artists such as Rudeen, Sxph (formerly of the SSK fame), and Bunga. It would close today with a turntable scratching session.