A unique bridge between the ancient rhythms of primitive tribes and the vibrant tapestry of contemporary artistic expression, Kelvin Chap’s captivating work delves into the intricate dance of human cultures within the embrace of nature, fusing modern techniques with the ancient essence of tribal traditions. With a fond love and appreciation for Borneo’s nature and culture, his "Pola-Pola Asli" series aims to capture the archetypes of primitive tribes. This collage, a vivid exploration of ethnic iconographies, weaves together a tribal woman dressed in traditional attire, basketry, and various symbolic motifs. Bursting with vibrant energy and a rich palette, the work reflects the dynamic hues of the rainforest and the cultural diversity of Sabah and Sarawak. The colour black of the stencilled icons is used to emphasise the threats faced by aboriginal cultures and the fading art of basketry. Due to rapid deforestation, the supply of wood and rattan diminishes, while the living area of local tribes is reduced. The whole work is a dialogue between tradition and modernity, and a window into the complex interactions of humanity, culture, and environment.

A creative artist who loves to experiment with various types of materials, media and ways of expression, Kelvin Chap received his education majoring in print-making at the Malaysian Institute of Art (1992-1994). Since his early years, he garnered wide acclaim by winning the Swatch Street Painting Competition in 1994. His accolades include multiple Pilihan Negeri Sabah (1993, 1994 & 1995) honours, as well as recognition at the Philip Morris Malaysian Art Awards, having awarded Honourable Mention in 1995 and the Juror’s Choice in 2001 respectively. His solo exhibitions include Belawing and the Great Mamat (Totem and the Great Hunter), Pelita Hati (1996), Idea 9, Pelita Hati (2000), and Old Masks, Modern Man, Maison of Malaysian Art (MoMA) (2011). His group exhibitions include Innenseite, Kassel, Germany (1997), Gema: Resonance, A Malaysian Exhibition of Contemporary Art, Prague, Czech Republic (1998), and RUPA Malaysia: A Decade of Art at the Brunei Gallery, School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), London (1998). He has also exhibited at the Shanghai World Expo 2010 in the Malaysian Pavilion in China. His work can be found in public collections such as the National Art Gallery, Malaysia, Galeri Petronas, Sabah Art Gallery, Chamalires, France as well as private collections in Malaysia, Singapore, Chile, Japan, USA, France, Germany and China. His works have been published in Masterpieces from the National Art Gallery by Redza Piyadasa (2002), Arts of Southeast Asia by Fiona Kerlogue (2004), and Atlas of World Art by John Onians (2004).

References

Henry Butcher ‘Malaysian & Southeast Asian Art Auction October 2015’, p. 102

Old Masks Modern Man: A Solo Exhibition by Kelvin Chap, Maison of Malaysia Art (MoMA Fine Arts Gallery), 2011. 

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