9 Places In Klang Valley To Visit If You Appreciate Art

Image credit: Digital Art Gallery & Ilham Gallery

Looking for a fun and meaningful activity to do on the weekends? Why not take a trip to one of these art galleries that house all kinds of art, installations and pieces that would make you wonder and marvel? Before we continue with the list, I would like to leave this quote by one of the most influential artists of the 20th century:

“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”

Pablo Picasso

1. Ilham Gallery

Aspiring to appeal to a wide range of people and acting as a resource for both artists and those who are new to the arts, Ilham Gallery is a public art gallery located in Ilham Tower. Btw did you know it’s the 7th tallest building in Malaysia? There is always an exhibition or art bazaar going on, so you should definitely follow them on social media to keep updated. Currently, they are running the Ilham Art Show 2022 which features Malaysian artists. Show your support before it’s too late – it ends in October!

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Image credit: Ilham Gallery Facebook

2. GMBB

If you are in need of a different kind of mall experience, you might enjoy your time at GMBB. Located in Bukit Bintang, GMBB is a creative community mall that strives to be a collaborative hub for Malaysian creatives, artists, and craftsmen. It is the place to visit if you consider yourself an art lover. They usually have several events and exhibitions going on including a wayang puppet making workshop that occurs every 2nd and 4th weekend of the month!

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Image credit: GMBB Facebook

3. Digital Art Gallery

Co-founded and brought to life by Abdul Shakir and Fariz Hanapiah, the Digital Art Gallery is created to be a gallery specifically for digital artists. Through this platform, they hope to encourage young talents to explore artmaking in the digital world. The Digital Art Gallery is equipped with facilities and resources that would support the technical aspects of the show, as well as help in promoting the exhibitions to the public. Art shows are curated on a monthly basis, so there is always something new happening at the gallery!

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Image credit: Digital Art Gallery Facebook

4. Heritage1957 Cafe & Gallery

Named after the auspicious year where Malaysia became independent, Heritage 1957 Café and Gallery can be found on Jalan Panggong (it used to be known as Theatre Street). Serving traditional Malaysian food along with other Asian and Western delicacies, you can admire the art that is exhibited in the café while you are eating. FYI the café is known to serve a mean bowl of Sarawak laksa! In terms of art, they often showcase various artist’s work on the walls in their café. Currently, they are holding an exhibition entitled “Splashes Of Golden Moments” – it showcases the watercolour artwork of 31 senior citizen artists! Make sure you check it out before it ends on 15th June.

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Image credit: Heritage1957 Cafe & Gallery 懷記 Facebook

5. Lostgens’

While you are at Jalan Panggong, you can also drop by Lostgens’. It’s an alternative art space that was created when a group of young artists came together in 2004. Since its beginnings, the artists have worked on a variety of projects and shows, partnering with individuals from all over the world, including the Goethe-Institut, with whom they have collaborated since 2006. Other than organizing art exhibitions and events, they also hold short-term programs to discuss topics such as philosophy, art history and current issues.

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Image credit: Lostgens Facebook

6. ZHAN Art | Space

Siblings Desmond Tong and Dr Ginny Tong co-founded ZHAN Art | Space in December 2018 with the goal of displaying contemporary fine art from Malaysia and overseas. As of January 2022, ZHAN Art | Space has staged 22 art exhibits and curated artworks by more than 80 artists. The art gallery offers both young and experienced artists the space to gain exposure and demonstrate their talent. Do check out their upcoming event – they will be hosting Simulacrum which is a group exhibition featuring 19 visual artists organized by the TitikMerak Collective.

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Image credit: ZHAN Art Space Facebook

7. Kuala Lumpur City Gallery

Owned and managed by ARCH, the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery uses miniatures to depict the stories of Kuala Lumpur’s past, present, and future. Strategically located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s historical district at the Independence Square (Dataran Merdeka), you wouldn’t miss it because it’s where you can find the iconic “I Love KL” monument. Another exciting attraction within the gallery is The Spectacular City Model Show. It is Malaysia’s largest and one-of-a-kind miniature model of the city of Kuala Lumpur. What’s even more amazing is that it is continuously updated to represent how the city has evolved over time! There are many more attractions within – you can make a full day outing just by visiting the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery!

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Image credit: https://www.klcitygallery.com.my/

8. KL City Art Gallery

Do not be confused by the similar names, KL City Art Gallery is located at the KL Jazz & Arts Centre (KLJAC). KL City Art Gallery, which focuses on contemporary art, is a must-visit for art lovers. The gallery exhibits the work of Malaysian artists whose works, in a variety of genres, express their perspectives on current socio-cultural challenges. The gallery also serves as a platform for new and emerging artists. Other than art exhibitions, you can find the gallery holding a variety of talks, seminars, workshops, cross-disciplinary initiatives, and cultural performances.

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Image credit: KL City Art Gallery Facebook

9. National Art Gallery

Of course, I can’t miss out on Malaysia’s official art gallery the National Art Gallery. Especially since it’s gone through a facelift that includes a brand-new roof, gift shop, café, and a fully equipped Art Hospital! Mark the date on your calendar – the gallery is scheduled to be reopening on 21st June. Be prepared to be wowed and amazed by a series of carefully curated exhibitions such as NUSA, SINGLE and digital art exhibition WALKING THROUGH A SONGLINE when it reopens.

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Image credit: The Star/Glenn Guan

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