Galeri Khazanah’s fifth virtual exhibition is a captivating exploration of continuity, diversity, and a resilient nation through a diverse range of 33 compelling artworks by 21 Malaysian artists, each with its unique story and perspective.

Threads & Tapestry: Weaving a Collective Story of Malaysia is a Malaysian modern and contemporary virtual art exhibition that explores the interwoven narratives of continuity, diversity, and collective identity.

Featuring selected works from the Khazanah collection spanning a variety of media – photography, digital print, sculptures, drawings, and paintings – the exhibition seeks to reflect how individuals, cultures, and communities come together to form the vibrant, multifaceted fabric of society. Through the lens of these diverse art forms, the virtual exhibition examines the shared human experience and joyously celebrates it, making viewers feel part of this larger narrative. The exhibition also highlights the distinct threads of identity that, when interwoven, create a collective story of resilience, progress, and harmony.

The woven fabric metaphor is at the heart of Threads & Tapestry, where each thread represents a different person, culture, or experience. Individuals and communities contribute to a nation’s shared identity as single threads form a stronger, more beautiful whole. This virtual exhibition deeply explores how personal and collective narratives intersect, how differences enrich society, and how unity emerges not through sameness but through blending diversity, inviting the audience to engage in this introspective exploration.

The displayed artworks initiate an interactive visual dialogue between tradition and modernity, personal memory and collective history, individual identity and shared culture. From abstract expressions to intimate portrayals of cultural heritage, the exhibition actively invites viewers to consider the evolving nature of community, the bonds that tie us together, and the beauty in our differences. Featured artists include Mustapa Ibrahim, Ismail Hashim, Raja Azhar Idris, Raja Shahriman Raja Aziddin, Soraya Yusof Talismail, Yee I-Lann and more.

Curated by Malaysian art consultant Sarah Abu Bakar, designed by Malaysian architecture firm Fei Architect, and photographed by Wesley Wong of Giclee Art Sdn Bhd, Galeri Khazanah consists of five thematic virtual reality spaces: the Glass Room, Pavilion, Peranakan, Traditional House, and Lobby.

The design concept is anchored in the theme of national identity, complementing the original curatorial approach of celebrating Malaysia.

Fei Architect founder and principal, Ar. Lam Shen Fei, who took part in the Khazanah Design Residency 2019, describes the design purpose as a “…relook at architecture, interiors and landscape to depict the architectural styles of Malaysia, while taking into account that the online gallery will be accessed by foreigners, academicians, art enthusiasts and students. Such styles are crucial to creating a narrative that casts an impression during the virtual tour. This intention subverts the backdrop of ubiquitous white plain space of Western art galleries.”

This project is also in memory of a critical team member, Mohd Suhaimi Ahmad, an independent art advisor and collector who sadly passed away in November 2021.