Art on Pewter Fundraising Drive
June 2005

To mark its 120th anniversary, Royal Selangor has commissioned some of Malaysia's best-loved artists Harris Ribut, Yusof Gajah and Sandra Knuyt to create works of art on its classic and iconic tankards. The artists have completed 30 tankards among them, each hallmarked with a distinctive style and character. More than half of the finished artworks will be given to the Women's Aid Organisation to help raise funds.

With the variety of styles and interpretations, that collection of tankards offers nothing short of a visual feast. Collectors of the illustrious Harris Ribut will be glad to know that most of his famous collections will be represented albeit reinterpreted to best suit the tankards. He is best known for capturing Malaysians life with joy and movement as expressed in his signature paintings of big, voluptuous women.

Afirm believer of contributing art to the society, Yusof Ismail is no stranger to charity fundraising. More endearingly known as Yusof Gajah for his quirky and colourful elephant-themed paintings, he acknowledges that his challenge was to create an indelible picture which also best complements pewter's colour and sheen. Texturally rich, Yusof has even incorporated coins into his compositions.

Another contributor is Flemish Pop artist Sandra Knuyt who is noted for her works of intense colour and bold forms. Her powerful works emanate a strong passion which is unapologetic and contagious. Sandra names her collections L'amour to convey the falling in love with pewter all over again.

The completed tankards will be available for viewing at the Royal Selangor Visitor Center as well Royal Selangor stores in Suria KLCC, Mid Valley Megamall, 1 Utama, Lot 10, Bangsar Shopping Center, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Satellite Building), Plaza Gurney and at Lebuh Light, Penang.

All artists will also be demonstrating the art of painting on a pewter tankard at the following dates and venues:

• 26 June, 1 to 3 pm Sandra Knuyt at Royal Selangor Suria KLCC
• 2 July, 1 to 3 pm Harris Ribut at Royal Selangor Mid Valley Megamall
• 9 July, 1 to 3 pm Yusof Gajah at Royal Selangor Gurney Plaza (Penang)

Pewter Painting Competition
To encourage budding artists to try their hand at pewter painting, Royal Selangor has also organized a pewter painting competition. Preliminary rounds will be done on paper and only twelve selected finalist will compete and pain on pewter tankards. The top three winners will each receive a pewter tankard painted by Sandra, Harris or Yusof plus RM 2,000 worth of Royal Selangor vouchers.

Contest forms can be obtained from Royal Selangor stores or downloaded from their website. The closing date for entry is 20 July 2005.