The new year begins with the two-year pandemic upon us without a hint of abating, and the idea of an endemic era looms ahead. Yet artists in Malaysia are still vigilant in their artmaking; they ceaselessly carry ideas weighing on their minds, brimming with excitement by the mere mention of getting back into the swing of things.

This is the third collaboration between the two galleries, known for their commitment to represent local artists. Singapore-based Maya Gallery focuses on works that reflect heritage and cultural values that are richly entrenched. Core Design Gallery is passionate about catapulting contemporary Malaysian art into the international arena. Both galleries aim to stimulate cultural discourses in the art community.

Serba-Serbi is an assortment of dynamic works that exemplify artistic efforts conceived during the pandemic. The title is derived from a reduplicated Malay rhyming word that roughly translates to 'variety'. Featured in the show are varying forms of work that embody heritage and culture, as well as values shared by audiences on both sides of the causeway.

As neighbouring countries like Singapore and Malaysia share similarities in heritage, culture and the arts, Maya Gallery and Core Design Gallery opt to celebrate the diversity of cultural values which have assimilated into these artists' lives, and consequently reflected in their works.

Ranging from young to mid-career and frequently highlighted in the contemporary art scene in Malaysia, Serba-Serbi features:

Ain Rahman

Anniketyni Madian

Husin Othman

Haafiz Shahimi

Mohd Fairuz Paisan (Po Oi)

Nor Tijan Firdaus

Syafiq Hariz

The exhibition will run from 22 February to 22 March 2022 at Maya Gallery.