KUALA LUMPUR: A young artist from Borneo is transforming discarded polyester plastic into stunning textiles, blending tradition and sustainability in his Kenyalang Circus exhibition. Marcos Kueh, 29, a Chinese-Malaysian based in the Netherlands, is showcasing his vibrant creations at the National Art Gallery.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, his designs combine fluorescent threads with cultural narratives, inspired by his roots in Malaysia and Borneo, as well as the chaotic beauty of street advertisements and multinational brand logos. “Growing up, I was surrounded by plastics and stories about how they often end up in Malaysia. This project reimagines these materials, turning waste into something beautiful,” he said during a media preview of the exhibition in Kuala Lumpur.

Kueh said plastics are collected, recycled into yarns in Europe and woven into textiles. “Sustainability is a major focus in Europe, and we aim to use fully recycled materials,” he added. The project, which began in 2016 as a graphic de
sign collage during his studies, evolved into a textile venture after he learned weaving in the Netherlands.

His work also delves into post-colonial narratives. “Before paper and pen, people in Sarawak wove their stories into textiles. I find it romantic to bring that tradition into the modern world, weaving today’s stories into fabrics for future generations,” he added. The public can explore Kueh’s Kenyalang Circus at the ninth Single exhibition at the National Art Gallery from Dec 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025.

For more details, visit the National Art Gallery’s official website at www.artgallery.gov.my or follow them on social media.