LAVAA 15: A Celebration of Art, Identity & 15 Years of Creative Legacy in Langkawi
A wave of colour, creativity, and community spirit swept through Balai Seni Negara Langkawi today as the Langkawi Visual Art Association (LAVAA) officially launched Pameran LAVAA 15, a milestone exhibition celebrating its 15th anniversary.
Held from 1 to 31 July at Level 1 Gallery, Balai Seni Negara Langkawi, the exhibition was officiated by YBrs. Tuan Muhamad Subhi Abdullah, District Officer of Langkawi, and attended by key figures including YBrs. Puan Rohana Mohd Yusof (Deputy Director General of Operations, National Art Gallery), LAVAA President YBrs. Encik Sukardi Hashim, as well as government agencies and art enthusiasts.
23 Artists, 23 Visions — One Langkawi
Featuring the work of 23 local artists, the exhibition showcases an eclectic mix of paintings, sculptures, batik, prints, photography, and mixed media — each piece a visual echo of Malaysia’s cultural soul. Notable names include Ahmad Rosli Azimad, Lim It Leang, Syahril Azwan Salleh, Shureeza Faris Abdul Shukor, and Rominoe Jamiran, among others.
Through their brushstrokes, lenses, and chisels, the artists capture stories of heritage, identity, nature, and personal reflection — mirroring both Langkawi’s rich history and its evolving artistic spirit.
From Grassroots to Greatness
Founded in 2009, LAVAA has grown from a local artists’ collective to a cultural institution, now with 50 members of diverse backgrounds and expertise. For 15 years, LAVAA has not only given voice to Langkawi’s artistic community, but also driven cultural dialogue through continuous exhibitions, workshops, and collaborations.
“This exhibition is not just about celebrating the past,” said Sukardi Hashim, LAVAA President. “It’s about amplifying the creative energy that exists in Langkawi and reminding everyone — locals and tourists alike — that art is alive here, and it belongs to all of us.”
Art Meets Tourism: A Vision for Langkawi
Backed by partners such as Kedah Tourism, LADA, Lim Optometry, and Che Pa Village Langkawi, Pameran LAVAA 15 is part of a growing movement to position Langkawi not only as a natural paradise but as a thriving arts and culture destination.
The National Art Gallery, which co-hosts the exhibition, reaffirmed its support for LAVAA’s mission. “Langkawi holds immense potential as an art tourism hub,” said Deputy Director General Rohana Mohd Yusof. “Exhibitions like this bridge the gap between heritage and modern creativity — connecting artists with the public, and tradition with innovation.”
Free Entry, Daily Access
Art lovers, locals, and curious travellers are all encouraged to visit. Pameran LAVAA 15 is open daily from 9:00AM to 5:00PM throughout July at Balai Seni Negara Langkawi’s Level 1 Gallery. Admission is free.
For more information, follow the official social media pages of Balai Seni Negara or visit www.artgallery.gov.my.