Penang Art

Like most things in Penang it Art culture is rich. However, it's art traditions aren't very clear. The is actually view little in how Penang started with things like painting. Most of what art is seen in Penang has started recently. But this mostly deals with when Malaysia became an independent country. It is said that Penang started to paint around the 18th century when it was occupied by British settlers and Chinese immigrants. But art really didn't make head way in Penang until after WWII. Penang was founded in 1782 and was still heavily influenced by British colonization. Because of this few Penang artist flurished. The most significant contribution to traditional art in Penang was in 1920 and influenced by an artist name Yong Mun Sen. With his help Penang created Penang Chinese Art Club.

 Art began to expand until about 1940 during the Japanese invasion. The Japanese discouraged local art. Art was pretty dry  until about 1945 after the British won back Penang. Artist like Tay Hooi Keat become the dominate force in Penang. With his influence he created and was the chair of the Penang Art Teacher's Council.

 If there ever was a traditional art form within Malaysia it would be Batik. This was created by Chuah  Thean Teng. Art continues to grow in Penang.

 The most current art form that is sweeping the area is street art, which started in 2009. Penang is still trying to establish it's own art but it is well on it's way.