James Kon
Local artist Pengiran Abdul Wahab Hassan Al-Abbas will be showcasing 194 abstract paintings in an exhibition titled ‘The Flowing Ancient River’, hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Brunei Darussalam from September 13-20.
The paintings will be available for public viewing from 9.30am to 5.30pm daily, at the Turkish Embassy Chancery located at No 27, Simpang 52, Kampong Manggis Satu.
During a media preview of the exhibition, Turkish Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Mehmet Suat Akgün said, “The reason for hosting such an exhibition is to build bridges between different countries and cultures. Apart from the economy, culture and arts is one of the priority areas connected to the hearts and minds of people.”
He added, “This is an excellent opportunity to establish new bridges between the people of Brunei Darussalam and the people of Turkey.”
The Turkish Embassy has hosted numerous musical, photography and arts events in the past years.
Pengiran Abdul Wahab Hassan Al-Abbas meanwhile told the Weekend Bulletin, “The paintings on display are closely connected to the themes of spiritual development, nature and Kampong Ayer.”
The collection spans more than 40 years, with 2017 signifying a rejuvenation of the painter’s life as a full-time artist after his retirement from government service.
As an artist and keen observer, Pengiran Abdul Wahab Hassan Al-Abbas has made several sketches and paintings related to the COVID-19 experience.
His paintings titled Feasting and Appreciating Candle Lights have captured how the pandemic can affect our daily existence.
Pengiran Abdul Wahab has also pledged 20 per cent from the sales of his paintings for NGO charities and 10 per cent for animal welfare.