00:00 The Tamil language is one of the oldest in the world, and it is believed that the earliest
00:07 Tamil inscriptions date back to the 5th century BCE.
00:11 The beauty and complexity of this language are being showcased at 'The Truth Untold',
00:16 an exhibition of Tamil typography and calligraphy, by Artvoice, a collective of emerging and
00:22 mid-career artists.
00:24 The exhibition will run till November 30th.
00:29 Located at the Artvoice Gallery in Sentoh, the exhibition is a feast for the eyes, featuring
00:34 the works of 20 remarkably talented artists.
00:39 On exhibit are paintings, photographs, installation arts, ceramics and sculptures.
00:44 One artist showcasing an installation art titled 'Identity' is Sharini Yogi.
00:51 My work will show, actually most of our works will show the importance of our heritage and
01:00 how a Tamilian should be rooted to their tradition, just as any other culture.
01:11 A lot of research has been put into this work.
01:15 I want my viewers to explore the richness of this language.
01:20 It's a very ancient language.
01:22 Another unique aspect of the exhibition, the inclusion of one Malay and one Chinese artist
01:28 who are presenting their interpretations of Tamil typography and calligraphy.
01:32 Mad Ali Matsom is showcasing his sculpture 'Damai', which was inspired by the Tamil alphabet
01:38 and the pronunciation of the letters.
01:41 This is admittedly a new experience for him, despite his talent in Arabic calligraphy.
01:46 But he said he was thrilled about creating a work of art outside his comfort zone.
01:52 For me, this show is very unique.
01:56 It's very unique.
01:58 Even the sound, maybe about Tamil calligraphy, in our mind we may imagine it's for Indians
02:08 only.
02:09 But suddenly there's a Chinese, there's a Malay also join.
02:13 So we show our Malaysian unity, even in the political chaos.
02:23 So this is how we try to show that our multiracial uniqueness is still strong.
02:38 Joining the line-up of artists is photographer Choi Kai Fat, who is displaying his work titled
02:44 'Genesis' or 'The Beginning' that involves the first letter of the Tamil alphabet.
02:50 He believes that Tamil typography and calligraphy, just like any other culture, must be preserved.
02:57 There should also be more awareness created about this art.
03:02 Malaysia is such a rich nation, you see.
03:06 Malaysia has got the racial composition.
03:08 That is the fundamental, that is the strength of Malaysia.
03:11 Yes, we are rich, you see.
03:14 Rich with abundance, you see.
03:16 It's just that sometimes we tend to forget.
03:20 Sylvain Ras and Sheila Bijayan, FMT Lifestyle.
03:23 [MUSIC PLAYING]
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