Artjamila is showcasing new works in the 'Art Journaling 40450 Exhibition 2024' at the Artjamila Gallery & Museum in Shah Alam. Photo: The Star/Art Chen
Have you ever kept a diary or journal? For many, keeping one is a great way to jot down precious memories or have a safe space to express personal thoughts or emotions.
Art journalling is similar, but rather than expressing yourself through just words, you can incorporate sketches, cut-outs from printed materials, ticket stubs, receipts, washi tape, and much more.
In its latest group exhibition, Artjamila Gallery & Museum in Shah Alam, Selangor joined forces with the College of Creative Arts at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) to spotlight art journalling as a dynamic and transformative creative practice, steadily gaining traction in Malaysia’s art scene.
Art Journaling 40450 Exhibition 2024, which runs through Dec 10, showcases a collection of art journals, weaving together stories of courage, growth, and personal reflection.
It features 29 artists, each interpreting the theme “Time and Memories,” including works by 22-year old autistic artist Wan Jamila Wan Shaiful Bahri, known professionally as Artjamila.
Showcasing new talent
“Art journalling is not only a form of creative expression, but also a therapeutic practice. It connects us to our emotions and personal experiences, helping us reflect on our memories in a meaningful way,” said Noor Sa’adah Mohd Noordin, art manager of Artjamila Gallery & Museum.
The art space also doubles as Artjamila’s studio, where the award-winning autistic artist creates. Recognised both locally and internationally, she was honoured last year with the prestigious Michelangelo International Prize, “The Genius of Italy,” by Fondazione Effetto Arte in Italy. This esteemed award celebrates artists who have distinguished themselves through their artistic research and the stylistic significance of their work.
Mumtaz (left) and Noor Sa’adah are seen browsing through the works at the exhibition. Photo: The Star/Art Chen
In Art Journaling 40450, Artjamila presents new works alongside those of UiTM students and guest artists from an open call, each piece exuding a youthful and vibrant energy.
“In an era where AI-generated art is on the rise, art journalling helps preserve our humanity by reminding us of the value of a personal touch,” said Noor Sa’adah.
As part of the collaboration with UiTM, the gallery (which opened last year) hosted two workshops (one in July and another in September) to introduce participants to this unique form of storytelling, creating a bridge between academia, artists, and the broader community.
Associate Professor Dr Mumtaz Mokhtar from UiTM’s Faculty of Fine Art Studies, who led the workshops, said that the sessions went beyond showcasing art, revealing its potential as a powerful medium for communication and self-expression.
Part of the exhibition title playfully nods to the UiTM campus’ postcode.
“The workshops received an enthusiastic response, highlighting the community’s growing interest in the art of journalling,” said Mumtaz, who has been a longtime supporter of Artjamila’s works.
“Because there is no singular correct way to craft your journal, every approach is valid and personal,” she added.
A channel for healing
The gallery space is thoughtfully arranged with wall exhibits and a curated selection of journals, inviting visitors to explore and flip through each piece at their own pace.
For this series, Noor Sa’adah and Mumtaz came together, pooling their resources and expertise to create a unique year-end exhibition.
A view of the exhibition space at Artjamila Gallery & Museum, which opened to the public last September. Photo: Artjamila
For much of her life, Artjamila has been non-verbal, yet, as her aunt Noor Sa’adah explains, the practice of art journalling has played a pivotal role in helping her express herself more openly. This shift became particularly profound after the passing of her mother and art manager, Noorhashimah Mohamed Noordin, last year, offering Artjamila a channel for healing and personal reflection during a period of deep loss.
“At the end of the journal jam workshops we did, we would have a sharing session reflecting on our experience in putting together our art journals. I was surprised when Jamila excitedly went up to the front and wanted to present her thoughts,” said Noor Sa’adah.
Even during this recent interview, Artjamila eagerly interjected with her own thoughts and opinions.
“One of the main reasons we sought to collaborate with UiTM on this project is because we recognise the transformative potential of art journalling, especially for neurodiverse individuals,” explained Noor Sa’adah.
“Many parents of neurodiverse children visit the gallery, and we believe it would be empowering to encourage them to explore alternative creative outlets and mediums, beyond just painting, to foster self-expression and connection.”
She further noted that even iconic artists like Frida Kahlo and Leonardo da Vinci maintained art journals, providing profound insights into their personal lives and creative journeys. Similarly, many contemporary mixed media artists, such as Teesha Moore, are renowned for their visual journal pages and collaged works, using the medium to blend personal expression with artistic innovation.
A close-up detail of one of the art journals on display at the exhibition. Photo: Artjamila
Art Journaling 40450 provides a stepping stone to many of the young artists involved. The show features 54 journals and 50 artworks on display.
Mumtaz noted that while the art journalling community in Malaysia remains niche, it is also vibrant and actively growing.
“The most important aspect isn’t just the journals we create, but the sense of community we build,” she said.
“During journal jams, we gather together, share materials, bring food and drinks, and simply enjoy each other’s company as we work on our journals. Many of us carry our journals and supplies with us, ready to create or even host an impromptu journal jam whenever the moment strikes – I personally take mine with me when I travel, allowing creativity to flow wherever I go,” said Mumtaz.
Art Journaling 40450 is a feelgood exhibition to wrap up the year, but Mumtaz emphasises that the momentum must not fade. The energy and creativity sparked by this event should continue to grow and inspire long after the exhibition closes.
“This art journalling initiative is designed to offer an inclusive platform for artists and enthusiasts to share their creativity. We look forward to seeing many of these artists grow, discover their voices, and fully come into their own,” concluded Mumtaz.
The Art Journaling 40450 Exhibition 2024 show is open to the public at Artjamila Gallery & Museum, No. 1, Jalan Gunung Tahan, U11/44, Bukit Bandaraya, Shah Alam Selangor until Dec 10 (Monday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm). Free admission.
