Art House Gallery Museum of Ethnic Arts ( 集珍庄民族文物馆 ）

29/04/2026

06/02/2026

HAVE A NOSTALGIC CHINESE NEW YEAR

In this dynamic age of the ‘fast track’ where speed and novelty define taste, anything that’s a few years old is often considered outdated or no longer in vogue. Every year, a barrage of new year songs are released. While creating something new might be a forward-thinking idea, it is the classics nevertheless, that really soothes and warm our hearts, bringing us fond memories of the “ good old days “.

For this Chinese New Year, we, the Art House Gallery at Central Market, is presenting a journey down memory lane by exhibiting items from bygone eras. Many of these objects originate from China’s rural areas and native communities. For Malaysians, be they Chinese or otherwise, it offers an eye-opening glimpse into how life in China once was.

By showcasing traditional, classical and antiquated objects from yesteryears, the exhibition offers insight into how our China brethren once lived, worked and enjoyed life and living. More importantly, they reflect the unique and idiosyncratic woven marriage of craftsmanship and beauty in utilitarian objects.

While some of these items may not be deemed monetarily valuable, they are nonetheless authentic and practical pieces worthy as collectibles. Their true worth lies not in price, but in the stories and lived experiences they carry. While adding character and beauty to home decor, it also serve as meaningful mementos to connect this generation to an ancient civilization that continues to this day.

Come and be amazed, and reconnect with memories that still shape who we are!

Location: Art House Gallery at Central Market
Address: Lot 3.02, 2nd flr, The Annexe, Central Market
Jalan Hang Kasturi, KL
Opening hours: 1030am to 7pm daily
Enquiries: Leonard ( 012-3886868 )

16/12/2025

CONDUCTING INTERVIEW AND COURSE FOR LOCAL STUDENTS

Good Morning sir, wishing you a good start for the day.

First of all, we are deeply grateful for your kindness and cooperation in accepting our interview session the other day. There are many interesting takes from you and it is very eye opening to us!

Next, this is actually our first time conducting an interview since we are only semester 1 students. Thus, we would like to apologise for the things that are lacking on our part during the session. We would strive to be better surely!

Lastly, here are the pictures that have been captured on our session. Thank you for your patience 🙏🏽

Best regards

Above are the words of UITM student leader Nur Sabrina.
Later that day, we entertained a group of 35 students from a secondary school from Johor. Gave a 30 minute talk on the subject of Sarawak Art.

Leonard Yiu
Curator

07/10/2025

A GEM OF AN ART FORM

Thailand is a global leader in gemstone cutting. Yet the tradition extends beyond jewelry to unique artforms like Gemstone Art ( Gemstone Painting), whereby skilled artisans meticulously arrange tiny colorful gemstone chips to form intricate images on a reverse glass surface.

The process begins with collection of "tailings" from gemstone factories, often containing semi-precious stones like rubies and sapphires. These fragments are then sieved, crushed, polished and carefully sorted out by color before being entrusted to artisans.

With featherlight touch, each chip is cut, placed and secured with glue. Even the simplest piece requires weeks of patient dedication, while larger, more intricate works are true labors of devotion that may take months to complete.

The motifs are deeply rooted in Thai culture, vividly portraying traditional trades, classical dances, ornate costumes, headdresses, and jewelry that feature Thai royalty, courtesans, musicians, monks and even mythical beings. Each piece is an artistic and cultural statement.

This distinguish collection of 12 gemstone paintings was acquired from a single collector who has kept them for half a century until now. No doubt the art is still alive in Thailand today. Nevertheless, the sheer draughtsmanship skills of yesteryears will probably never be surpassed by the current generation. Hence, what was once regarded as craftwork has somewhat been elevated into a realm of vintage collectibles, prized for their cultural and heritage value.

What makes this art form truly unique is its eternal quality. The natural hues and vibrancy of the gemstones will never fade, requiring little to no upkeep, allowing each piece to be cherished for a lifetime!