Artist’s vision of a blooming nation where all belong

KUALA LUMPUR: Former Universiti Malaya associate professor, Loh Siew Yim, never imagined she could paint. Painting was not her strong suit during her school days in Taiping; she often received Cs or Ds in art class. Now, her home is adorned with 70 to 80 paintings, primarily botanical works. Among these, approximately a dozen are part of an online mini-exhibition called "Merdeka in Bloom," created for the Merdeka and Malaysia Day season.

This marks her first exhibition, an unexpected milestone for someone who does not consider herself an artist. For Loh, the hibiscus, Malaysia's national flower, symbolizes the diversity within the nation. Each blossom represents the various colors and backgrounds of Malaysian people, emphasizing the importance of living harmoniously and allowing each other to flourish.

Loh's artistic journey began post-retirement in December 2021 from her role in the department of rehabilitative medicine. Initially, she started with paint-by-number kits, eventually transitioning to acrylics as she sought to express her creativity beyond the confines of structured learning. The idea for her exhibition surfaced while she was listening to the radio, where discussions on racial issues became repetitive and divisive.

Determined to contribute positively to the nation, Loh chose the hibiscus as a medium to express her vision of unity and diversity. Unlike traditional botanical paintings, Loh focuses on symbolism, appreciating the transient beauty of flowers that bloom and fade, mirroring the resilience required to overcome challenges. This theme of resilience reflects her former work with cancer survivors, where painting sessions provided sensory stimulation and engagement.

Loh utilizes AI to create her online gallery, sidestepping the high costs associated with private galleries. With "Merdeka in Bloom," she hopes to convey a broader message: inclusive policies are essential for the collective growth and prosperity of Malaysia. Just as every flower contributes to the beauty of a garden, every Malaysian has a role to play in building a united and vibrant country.