Freakshow(case), an art exhibition at Sunway University

Sunway University’s Department of Art and Design (DAD) for the first time organised an exhibition, titled ‘Freakshow(case)’. The students, comprising of the Diploma in Graphic and Multimedia Design, Diploma in Interior Design and Diploma in Fine Art showcased their work to students, teachers and industry experts at the studio in Sunway University.

Artwork on display during the Sunway DAD Freakshow(case)

The theme ‘freak’ was decided upon as designers are often described as ‘weird people’ while ‘show(case)’ reflects a carnival of ideas to spread and share. The exhibition was launched by Professor Graeme Wilkinson, Vice-Chancellor of Sunway University and Pn Futom Binti Shikh Jaafar, Senior General Manager, Malaysian Design Council. Others present were Professor Pua Eng Chong, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Sunway University; Associate Professor Dr Lee Ei Leen, Acting Dean, Faculty of Arts, Sunway University; Ang Tong Yin, Head, Department of Art and Design (DAD), industry guests, parents, staff and students.

Professor Wilkinson looking at some of the artwork produced by the DAD students.

Professor Graeme said, “The DAD students have expressed their most creative designs in the past, especially during the ‘Think to Make a Difference’ competition where they were invited to present their designs, to be incorporated in the New University Building. We hope to get more students involved in the future. We have many talented students here today who are supported by many talented staff. I would like to congratulate the students and the department on your achievements that have been tremendous over the years. This is the first show you’ve put together and we hope to see many more in the future.”

Professor Wilkinson presenting Pn Futom with an artwork done by Sunway DAD lecturer, Nasarudin Ahmad while Dr Lee Ei Leen (extreme left) and Professor Pua looked on.

Pn Futom said before the launch of the exhibition, “It gives me great pleasure to be present here this morning to launch this show. I believe people who are geniuses often label themselves as ‘freaks.. They get to embody their craziness with new and innovative ideas that become transparent through their designs. The four day showcase has an interesting way of promoting itself. To all graduating students, I believe you have had wonderful experiences exploring your talent and designs during your time at Sunway University. Now, it is time for you to move on, be it further your studies or contribute to the industry. I do hope the ‘freaks’ of Sunway University would add colour into the Malaysian design industry. This exhibition is a good platform for you to showcase your potential, creativity and take you further in life.”

The exhibition features a myriad of students work from all the programmes. From astonishing fine art, innovative packaging and branding ideas, designs and short animation productions, the audience were impressed and mesmerised. The students’ presentation skills were also put to the test as they were required to explain their designs and ideas and answer questions from the public. The event also serves as a platform for students to network with designers and potential employers from the industry and member of the public.