The Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery, valued at RM100 million, opens in Penang, featuring over 1,000 artworks and aiming to be a global arts destination
GEORGE TOWN: The Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery officially opened today, establishing a new international arts institution in Penang founded on ideals of art, humanity and peace.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow officiated the unveiling ceremony, attended by former French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin and the gallery’s founder, Prof Lin Xiang Xiong.
Chow said the gallery represents a new venture in positioning Penang as a hub for art and cultural activities, comparable to institutions like the Louvre and Tate Modern.
He noted that many tourists now plan travels around major galleries and cultural attractions to experience art as part of their journey.
“If Penang can build a strong identity around the arts, it will make our state even more attractive to visitors,” Chow said in his speech.
He emphasised this is crucial as Malaysia approaches Visit Malaysia Year 2026, requiring diversification beyond heritage.
“We must find new avenues, new content and new experiences that keep Penang exciting and relevant to the world,” he added.
Lin, 80, stressed art’s importance in today’s turbulent world, saying it can steady emotions and deepen understanding amid tension.
“Art cannot directly stop wars, but it can illuminate the mind,” Lin said.
The gallery is launching with a special exhibition titled *Picasso and Lin Xiang Xiong: A Dialogue Across Time*.
This exhibition explores artistic resonance between Picasso’s modernist language and Eastern perspectives in Lin’s works.
It addresses themes of anti-war, anti-poverty and environmental consciousness, aligning with the gallery’s “Art for Peace” mission.
An Art for Peace International High-Level Art Forum was also held today, gathering leaders from UNESCO, France, Brazil, Japan, China and Malaysia.
Located at The Light Waterfront, the gallery has an estimated value of RM100 million.
Rising eight storeys, it houses a collection of more than 1,000 artworks, with over 400 displayed through dynamic rotations.
Facilities include an art education centre, permanent exhibition floors, a special exhibition hall and an international collaboration conference room.
The sixth floor serves as an international exhibition platform for leading global artists and curated projects.
Beyond presenting Lin’s works, the gallery aims to foster sustained international artistic exchange through exhibitions, forums and educational programmes.
It is currently in a soft-opening phase and will open to the public from Tuesday, December 16.
The gallery will operate from Tuesday to Sunday, closing on Mondays.
Tickets are available for on-site purchase during this period, with online systems to be introduced progressively. – Bernama
