Chow browsing through one of the books donated by art lovers. Looking on are Loke (left) and Loh (fourth from right).
THE library of Penang Chinese Brush Painting Art Society in Victoria Green, George Town, is now open to the public.
It contains an impressive collection of 500 rare books and albums, said society president Loh Kooi Loong.
“It will surely enrich the public’s understanding and appreciation of Chinese ink painting,” he said in a Buletin Mutiara report.
Loh thanked Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and the Penang government for a RM10,000 allocation to set up the library and improve the society’s facilities.
The funds were used to buy chairs, a laptop and printer for the library, which were part of upgrading works by the society, which has grown from 11 members 11 years ago to 300 now.
It organises various activities such as art exhibitions and workshops featuring local and international artists as well as Chinese ink painting competitions.
The society’s advisor and Singapore-China Friendship Association vice-president Loke Gim Tay expressed delight in Penang’s flourishing art scene.
Chow said the state government was committed to providing a platform for people to connect and develop their strengths.
“The Penang government has played a leading role by bringing people together and allowing them to play their part in political, economic, cultural and educational circles.
“We welcome friends from the art world to contribute and promote the arts together so that Penang can have balanced development,” Chow said in his speech.
SMJK Jit Sin’s Chinese and string orchestra performed at the library’s opening ceremony.
