Organised by People of Remarkable Talent (PORT) recently, the Plein Air Challenge 2016 not only unearthed fresh talents, but also helped in promoting the state’s iconic tourism products in conjunction with Visit Perak Year 2017.
According to PORT director, Zamari Muhyi, it was the first watercolour painting competition that used Kellie’s Castle as its subject.
“Since the castle is one of the attention-grabbing tourism products, we’ve taken multiple approaches to enhance its promotion and the competition is one approach. The response is overwhelming, especially from participants outside of Perak. More than 100 amateur painters produced paintings of high value,” he said.
“Two similar programmes are in the pipeline. The targeted locations are the tin dredge in Tanjung Tualang and the city of Ipoh. Participation is open to the public. Details will be forthcoming,” he added.
Painters were given four hours from 9am to produce an art piece with an attractive perspective of the castle.
First place was won by Azman Md Nor, 31, from Selangor. Second spot went to 39-year-old Mazuki Muhammad from Kelantan while Halim Abang Drashid, 43, from Kuala Lumpur took third spot. They received RM3000, RM2000 and RM1000 respectively besides certificates, plaques and T-shirts.
Prizes were presented by Dato’ Zainol Fadzi Paharudin, a member of PORT’s Board of Directors.
Held for the first time ever, the competition was supported by Persatuan Seni Rupa Malaysia, Perak Tourism Sdn Bhd, Tourism Malaysia, Batu Gajah District Council and K-Perak.
Rosli Mansor
