Two exhibition visitors with some of their family photos. — Photos: YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
Old photos, stories from 30 families feature in KL showcase of cultures
Restored old photos of families from Sabah and Sarawak are the highlight of an exhibition in Taman Bukit Desa, Kuala Lumpur.
Organised by Canvas Art Creative, “Stories Behind Old Photographs (Borneo Edition)” features 30 different families whose images give visitors insight into the lives of communities in these two states on Borneo island.
“Many are unaware that there are more than 250 different ethnicities that are unrecognised and classified as ‘others’ in official documents,” said Canvas Art Creative managing director Faye Lim.
“We aim to show that they are Malaysians too and this is an opportunity for visitors to learn more about their background.
Lim: Restored photos allow people to feel connected to the past.
“I hope our young generation will appreciate and learn more about stories within these communities.”
Canvas Art Creative specialises in bringing new life to faded photos.
“The business was started by my late parents and now I am honoured to pick this skill up and put smiles on people’s faces when they reminisce about old times in their photos.”
She believes in preserving precious moments from the past so that people can continue to tell their stories.
“Over time, many of these images become faded and damaged, losing their ability to speak to younger generations.
Close-up of two restored photographs.
“But through restoration, these photos once again share the stories of the people from Sabah and Sarawak, allowing visitors to feel connected to the past,” she added.
This showcase follows the success of a 2023 exhibition on common ethnic groups in Malaysia that was supported by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry.
This time, Canvas Art Creative is focused on amplifying the voices of marginalised communities from Sabah and Sarawak, bringing to light the unique lives and cultures of peoples from this region.
“The effort made by the organiser is important as it preserves photos that would have been lost in the coming decades if nothing is done to protect them,” said visitor Maurice D. Giluk.
As a special treat tomorrow, visitors are invited to participate in a day of cultural exchange and connection, featuring talks on digital textile design, Sabah and Sarawak stories, a Kadazan language workshop and food tasting.
Stories Behind Old Photographs (Borneo Edition) is running until Oct 7, from 11am to 3pm and 6pm to 9pm, at Charlie’s Cafe & Bakery in Taman Bukit Desa.
