By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, July 23: The works of the late Sarawakian legendary artist Raphael Scott Ahbeng (RSA) serve as a benchmark for future generations of artists aspiring to make it their profession.
University Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts lecturer Sylvester Wielding Jussem described the late Raphael as one of the most remarkably contemporary artists Sarawak has ever produced, and also as his mentor in the art world.
“In our Oriental culture, we always thank our ‘sifu’ (master). Raphael was a master, and he would have loved to see his work serve as a benchmark for future generations of local artists.
“I am sure others are curious about how we developed from there. Even though I had a short stint with him (Raphael), it never occurred to me that I would become a lecturer in the subject,” he said when met by reporters at the preview of ‘The Continuum: 3 Generasi (Three Generations, One Vision — Past, Present, and What’s to Come)’ at Hoan Gallery, La Promenade Mall in Kota Samarahan today.
Sylvester reiterated that Raphael’s legendary artworks remain remarkably contemporary, despite having begun his career as a writer.
He added that Raphael’s journey in the arts began with writing, which later evolved into caricature.
“His interest in the arts just kept growing,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Mohamad Faizuan Mat, Deputy Director of the Unimas Institute of Creative Arts and Technology, added that Raphael employed various approaches and methods in his work.
“During his 60-year career, Raphael produced not only abstract art but also figurative works.
“That made him a truly contemporary artist who brought pride to Sarawak,” he said.
Approximately 40 artworks by three influential artists, the late Raphael, Sylvester, and Mohamad Faizuan, valued at an estimated RM200,000, will be exhibited at the gallery from July 25 to Aug 14, 2025.
The exhibition will highlight the breadth and depth of each artist’s practice, and all artworks will be available for purchase. — DayakDaily
