Kuala lumpur: The world of contemporary art is now engaging more closely with the public, as its reach extends beyond exhibition spaces in the federal capital to all corners of the country, exploring the true essence of Malaysia through the lens of art.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, National Art Gallery director-general Amerrudin Ahmad said this approach is being realised through the After Monsoon Project: Tera-Kota exhibition, a collaboration between the National Art Gallery and Art Matters Trading, which runs from Oct 24 to 30 at Pantai Pulau Kundur here.

Amerrudin emphasized the importance of experiencing art in its natural setting, highlighting that the concept of art is evolving through a site-specific approach, with works grounded in real locations and community life rather than being confined to conventional gallery spaces, in line with the changing times.

The exhibition, themed 'Tanah, Tubuh, Tapak', explores the relationship between humankind and the earth as a source of life and inspiration. Tera-Kota serves as a continuation of the earlier editions, After Monsoon 01 and 02, held in Tumpat in 2023, and reflects the lives of both the artistic and fishing communities who depend on nature.

The collaboration with the After Monsoon collective is a significant partnership in building artistic networks. The project is not merely an exhibition but a dialogue that fosters a collective spirit and counters individualism in the art world, with additional features like a community art feast, cultural performances, and the construction of a traditional ceramic firing facility.

Programme director Azzaha Ibrahim shared that Tera-Kota carries a deep symbolic meaning, with 'terra' referring to earth and 'kota' representing the human social body, symbolising the connection between people and nature. He noted that Pantai Pulau Kundur was an apt choice for the venue as nearly 90 per cent of its residents are involved in traditional crafts and fishing, providing an educational experience that resonates with them.

Besides Pantai Pulau Kundur, three ceramic art residencies in Kuala Kangsar, Karak, and Langkawi are also contributing works based on the theme of earth, to be showcased in a special exhibition in Kuala Lumpur this December.