Exploring The Artistic Legacy Of Chung Chen Sun At The National Art Gallery
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), through the National Art Gallery, held the official launch of the Archive Project: Chung Chen Sun Exhibition and Catalogue at the National Art Gallery. This exhibition aims to introduce and revive the legacy of the late Chung Chen Sun, a prominent Chinese ink painter and influential art educator in Malaysia.
The inauguration was officiated by YB Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of MOTAC. Also in attendance were YBrs. Encik Shaik Rizal Sulaiman, Chairman of the National Visual Arts Development Board (LPSVN), YBrs. Encik Amerrudin Ahmad, Director-General of LPSVN, officers from MOTAC and agencies, as well as the family members of the late Chung Chen Sun.
As the third edition in the Archive Project series by the National Art Gallery, this exhibition brings together a wide range of important documentation. These include photographs, sketches, catalogues, and interview recordings that offer a comprehensive insight into Chung Chen Sun’s creative process and artistic philosophy. In addition to his well-known Chinese ink works, the exhibition also features oil and pastel paintings that are rarely shown to the public. These artworks highlight the diversity of his techniques and the evolution of his artistic style throughout his career.
As one of the founding members of the Malaysian Institute of Art (MIA), Chung Chen Sun made significant contributions to the Malaysian art scene through his artistic practice and lifelong dedication to art education. Through the curated archival materials, the exhibition serves as an important reference in the history of Malaysian art. It also broadens public understanding of his role and contributions in shaping the local art scene, particularly within the context of Malaysian history and culture.
The exhibition is curated with Confucian philosophy as its central framework. It reflects the influence of Sanjiao, or the Three Teachings, which combine elements of Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism. These philosophies are reflected in both his artworks and his worldview.
The theme of the exhibition is divided into six segments. These include his journey from national to international recognition, cultural and artistic exchanges between Malaysia and China, the modernization of ink painting that merges Eastern and Western art approaches, his contributions to art education, his personal and family life, and his role as an art donor. This structure enhances the clarity of the narrative and allows visitors to engage with the exhibition in a more meaningful way.
The event also featured the launch of the Archive Project: Chung Chen Sun catalogue, which presents in-depth information related to the exhibition. The publication includes a curated selection of artworks, archival materials, and significant moments from his artistic journey and contributions. It reflects the National Art Gallery’s commitment to documentation and serves as a valuable reference for both current and future generations.
In addition, the National Art Gallery has collaborated in publishing the book Chung Chen Sun: Seventy Years of Art. This book was published in conjunction with his 90th birth anniversary, as a tribute to his artistic influence and legacy.
The Archive Project: Chung Chen Sun exhibition offers more than a retrospective of a single artist’s career. It weaves together art, education, and culture to create a meaningful and enriching experience. Through a thoughtfully curated presentation, visitors are invited to engage with the enduring legacy of Chung Chen Sun.
The public is invited to visit and experience the exhibition, which is open until 1 September 2025 at the National Art Gallery. Admission is free. For more information, follow the National Art Gallery’s official social media platforms or visit www.artgallery.gov.my.