Under one canopy
SPOTLIGHT 2018 was the Penang Art District’s first ever nationwide art competition aimed at giving budding artists a platform to develop and express their creativity.
It is in line with its mission in building a supportive environment and ecosystem that allows artists to come together to explore, experiment and evolve. The Penang Art District – a state government initiative – will be located on a3.8ha, L-shaped plot of land along the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway near the island’s eastern coastline.
Set to be the largest free art district in South-East Asia when complete, its design by BYG Architecture features a distinctive “Under One Canopy” concept beautifully anchored by a state-of-theart canvas that spans the entire area.
Made of a waterproof membrane and mesh fabrics, this will filter out 96% of UV rays whilst letting through light and wind to keep the area cool and airy. At the same time, it will channel rainwater for harvesting.
Structures will utilise a modular and insulated container concept reflecting Penang’s shipping heritage, complemented by a sculpture park and lush landscaping.
Penang Art District advisor Lee Khai said the project should commence once plans for an integrated LRT station are finalised, with a tentative completion date in 2021.
“This will be a place that everyone who comes to Penang would want to visit, the main hub for everything and anything related to art. There will be something for everyone. We also want it to benefit locals, especially the 30,000-strong population in the vicinity through arts education and engagement programmes,” says Lee, who is also Penang State Art Gallery chairman.
In its promotional brochure, plans for the district show over 9,000sq m of built-up spaces, including a white box, black box, art and music studios, co-working areas, mini art and design campuses and even dance and music schools.
It will also be home to the Penang State Art Gallery, as well as other commercial art galleries, creative retail stores, bookstores, cafes, eateries and a 126-room container hotel — all with disabled-friendly access.
Also planned is a 200-seat amphitheatre, an outdoor venue for festivals and events of up to 1,000 people, as well as dedicated pedestrian and bicycle lanes. There will be year-round public programmes and activities.
Ultimately, the Penang Art District will be a place where thousands converge to create, appreciate and celebrate the arts. For now, the public can expect more art-related events.