Dive into a wonderland of artistry and technology with Open Studios Penang '23! Themed “The Bunny Verses, Out of the Rabbit Hole”, this year’s edition is a dynamic fusion of art and technology.
By Fadillah Ghani
Open Studios Penang (OSP) stands as a catalyst for artists who may not have access to dedicated studio spaces. Many artists resort to using their kitchens or rooms as makeshift studios, constraining their creative potential. OSP steps in as a facilitator, connecting artists with suitable spaces and creating opportunities for them to work in more inspiring environments. It serves as a bridge between artists and venue owners, nurturing collaborations that benefit both parties.
Art is a dynamic entity, thriving in diverse settings, each presenting unique attributes and challenges. Ivan Gabriel, the Programme Curator for Open Studios Penang, plays a pivotal role in satisfying artists’ needs, enabling them to create in spaces that are personal and reflective of their artistic visions. OSP goes beyond conventional studio settings by enabling artists to briefly open their creative spaces to the public, often in unconventional venues such as cafes.
More about OSP: Open Studios Penang 2022: Promoting The Visual Arts in Penang
Unveiling the Wonderland of Art: Open Studios Penang ’23: The Bunny Verses, Out of the Rabbit Hole!
Enter a realm where art knows no boundaries, and creativity knows no bounds. Open Studios Penang ’23 invites you to join them on a whimsical journey through “The Bunny Verses, Out of the Rabbit Hole”, the fourth iteration of this celebration of art. However, what is the story behind this enigmatic theme?
Imagine a playful bunny, as swift as the White Rabbit of Wonderland fame, beckoning you to follow her down the rabbit hole into a world of artistry that’s magical and, simultaneously, the intersection of technology and art. Ivan asserts that in recent years, technology has profoundly influenced the art world. OSP has not been immune to these changes, adapting to the new technological landscape. The “Year of the Rabbit” theme, characterised by the “Bunny Verse” concept, presents the Rabbit Hole as a gateway to a multiverse where technology begins to influence creativity, making artistic expressions more dynamic and interactive.
This October, on the weekends of the 7th–8th and 14th–15th, let the White Bunny guide art enthusiasts as they hop from one gallery to another. This geographical feat is unique to Penang, where most venues are within walking distance. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to note that OSP is not a static event; it’s a dynamic experience, offering diverse opportunities to engage with art and artists.
For instance, some artists participating in OSP have specific hours during the two weekends, a deliberate choice offering visitors a unique insight into the artist’s creative process. This format allows art enthusiasts to observe artists in action, witness their techniques, and engage in conversations about their work. Specific hours provide a structured opportunity for interaction and learning. Conversely, other artists keep their studios open throughout the entire day, granting visitors the freedom to explore at their own pace. This format is conducive to a more immersive experience, accommodating individuals with busy schedules, providing flexibility to attend OSP when it best suits them. Therefore, it’s advisable to periodically check the website to identify the places you want to visit and their respective open hours before embarking on your gallery hopping.
What Awaits Us
This year, OSP anticipates the participation of nearly 50 artists, with most hailing from outside Penang, including Langkawi, Australia and Hanoi. Furthermore, OSP takes a significant step forward this year by offering an extension that focuses on technology integration. This extension features mini monologue films, intensive workshops, and art talks related to performance art and exhibitions. This innovative approach acknowledges the growing role of technology in contemporary art, aiming to bridge the gap between traditional artistic practices and modern tools.
Beyond intensive workshops and technology integration, OSP provides a unique opportunity to explore how architects translate concepts into tangible buildings. This opportunity arises through the collaboration with COEX, a space located behind the Hin Bus Depot. COEX, within the OSP framework, is where artists and architects merge artistic expression with architectural innovation. Here, architects are not merely builders; they are artists shaping spaces that serve both practical and artistic purposes. COEX showcases how architects transform abstract concepts into tangible structures, demonstrating the architectural design process as an art form in itself.
Open Studios Penang’s extension, with its technology-infused workshops and mini monologues, represents a bold step forward in the ever-evolving relationship between art and technology. By providing artists with opportunities to explore digital mediums and engage with the public in meaningful ways, OSP contributes to the growth and transformation of the art scene in Penang.
Join the Wonderland in October!
Open Studios Penang ’23 promises an enchanting showcase of art across multiple venues, a chance to mingle with brilliant artists and makers, open studios unveiling the artistic process, captivating art talks, live events pulsating with creativity, immersive workshops, and a mesmerising Mini Art Film Festival at Hikayat. Don’t miss their grand launch night on 6 October at the vibrant ChinaHouse, followed by two art-packed weekends on 7–8 and 14–15 October 2023. Stay updated by following their website and social media platforms!
Website: https://openstudiospenang.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OpenStudiosPenang/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openstudiospenang/
Hashtags: #OSP23BunnyVerses #OSPOutOfTheRabbithole
Prepare to be captivated by the allure of the Bunny Verse and plunge headfirst into a world of artistry that will redefine your perception of creativity. See you on the other side!
Fadillah Ghani graduated with a Bachelor’s (Hons) of Art majoring in Fine Art and minoring in Islamic Studies in Universiti Sains Malaysia. She is currently freelancing in art writing and joining creative activities such as performance art productions and group exhibitions to build up a diverse portfolio as an emerging young artist in the Malaysian art scene.