Artists taking inspiration from Merdeka Stadium and other landmarks to let loose their talents at KL Sketch Nation. — Photos: LOW LAY PHON/The Star
A GROUP of young artists took inspiration from Merdeka Stadium to produce visual masterpieces highlighting Kuala Lumpur city.
They were there at an event to celebrate the 10th anniversary of “KL Sketch Nation”.
A total of 50 artists under the age of 40 took part in the live painting session featuring the historic landmark as well as Stadium Negara, Masjid Al-Sultan Abdullah and Merdeka 118.
“This event was held to provide our members with the opportunity to appreciate and build memories of this historical building,” said KL Sketch Nation director and founder Ahmad Hakym Ahmad Hilmy.
Ahmad Hakym: Merdeka Stadium is of significant historical importance to Malaysia.
He added that Merdeka Stadium was of significant historical importance as it was the site of the declaration of independence in 1957.
Various sporting events such as the Merdeka Tournament for football as well as concerts by international artistes like Michael Jackson were also held at the stadium.
KL Sketch Nation member and medical practitioner Dr Muhammad Yahya Ahmad Rushdan came from Perak to participate in the event.
“It has given me a platform to exchange experiences with other artists,” he said.
Dr Muhammad Yahya: KL Sketch Nation allows an exchange of experiences with other artists.
Ahmad Hakym’s brother, Ahmad Haryth Ahmad Hilmy, said he was honoured to participate in the event and be part of the reopening of Merdeka Stadium.
Anis Humaira said she had been to the stadium a few times as a member of KL Sketch Nation.
“It is very nostalgic as we and the stadium have grown together,” she said.
In a press release, PNB Merdeka Ventures chief executive officer Tengku Datuk Ab Aziz Tengku said the programme aligned with its Merdeka 118 Youth Programme.
“It aims to instil the spirit of Merdeka and nurture talent among the youth.
An artist’s rendition of Merdeka 118, the tallest building in South-East Asia and the latest icon of the Kuala Lumpur skyline.
“We hope to empower young Malaysians to achieve their full potential and contribute positively to the nation,” he said.
The artworks produced are being exhibited at the stadium in conjunction with National Month and will later be auctioned.
The event was also a build-up to KL Sketch Festival 2024 that would be held in September at the River of Life in Kuala Lumpur.
