The image here is from her solo exhibition, “The Human Form” at Hin Bus Depot, which was part of the grand prize along with mentoring and RM5000 in cash. As a 22-year-old from Butterworth, winning this competition gave her great access to the arts scene in Penang, introducing her to both gallery owners and collectors. Ley Min says that winning the competition has really affirmed her dream of becoming a full-time artist, as well as helping her network in the field. It can be difficult for her, however, as she still has to work a full-time job teaching art.
She continues to find time for entering competitions such as the Tanjung Heritage Competition, UOB Artist of the Year, and Nando’s Art Initiative. Ley Min recognises that each of these provides her with additional opportunity to upgrade her skills, whether it is the ability to paint, or to explain her work in an “elevator pitch” situation, or making sure that she is accessible for galleries and press to contact her.
So there you have it: entering high profile national competitions can help with exposure, networking and sales. They can also give new artists vital experience of how the art world actually works as well as act as a building block on which to develop future success. It is difficult to say which competitions are more beneficial than others, but each of these artists agrees that any opportunity for a challenge, and any chance to learn something new, is always incredibly valuable.
To quote actor William Shatner (because everyone should listen to Captain Kirk): “No” closes doors. “Yes” kicks them wide open… As long as you’re able to say “yes”, the opportunities keep coming, and with them, the adventures.