The long weekend is upon us! Aside from the Merdeka celebration which will be happening in Putrajaya, there will also be an exciting new exhibition at APW Bangsar, starting from 31st August till 2nd September especially for the art enthusiasts!
Christened ROJAK – Malaysians from all walks of life come together and put their best-face forward to showcase their pride of being different. Regardless of race, religion, culture or background. ROJAK is a ethnographical visual series that explores and celebrates the vast, diverse and multicultural society we Malaysians are proud to be part of! Lovingly conceived by 3 local, up-and-coming photographers-Emma Khoo, John Kam, and Daniel Adam; each of their project express their own personal take on what it means to be Malaysian, unity and showcasing the love we share for our fellow countrymen (and women)!
Here’s a quick introduction to Emma Khoo, John Kam, and Daniel Adam which you ought to know before making your trip to APW Bangsar this weekend!
I AM MALAYSIAN by Emma Khoo
I AM MALAYSIAN by Emma Khoo explores the age-old-question: “What does it mean to be Malaysian?” Her answer is a photographical bonanza of bold fashions, bright colors and diverse set of characters from different ethnic background giving us them sassy poses. Each portrait is a self-contained story that makes statement. Inspired by her fascination with Kuala Lumpur’s history architecture and urban infrastructure; the series also celebrates the combination of the old and new. These “rojak” elements come together in the spontaneous styling and set-up of this shoot.
SKINTIGHT by John Kam
SKINTIGHT by John Kam is a series of that explores the beauty in Malaysia isn’t a set shade. That amongst Malaysians, skin color is unique and tangible reflection of personality, beliefs and stories that shape us as one-of-a-kind individual. From light to dark and every shade in-between. This series will the be first of its kind within Malaysia as a 100 individuals would be presented to show the beauty of Malaysia.
The Batik Series by Daniel Adams
The Batik Series by Daniel Adams is project that shows the diversity that Malaysia has to offer through its melting pot of cultures. Blurring the barriers between differences and allowing for everyone to be seen as part of this community that is present in Malaysia. Batik is a traditional art form that strongly represents Malaysian culture, historically. By using Batik, he aims to bring things back to basics, having the focus be on the community that we have through connecting and storytelling. The Batik, whether it played an important role in their upbringing, is a nostalgic remembrance of their past or the creation of new memories with this art form at this festival. These images showcase the integration of the old and the new, bringing forth a traditional art form into a modern day situation.
