In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, UR-MU, a private urban museum, has quickly become a pivotal force in Malaysia’s contemporary art scene. Through its innovative approach to art and architecture, the gallery is carving out a lasting impact on both the city and the broader cultural landscape. With a mission that bridges local heritage and global trends, UR-MU offers a space where the boundaries of art, architecture, and culture are constantly evolving. This interview explores the gallery’s vision, its commitment to supporting diverse artists, and its significant role in nurturing a thriving art community both in Malaysia and beyond.
UR-MU’s Vision and Evolution
Q: UR-MU has made a significant mark on Malaysia’s contemporary art scene in recent years. Could you share the gallery’s mission and core values, and how these principles have evolved since its inception?
A: UR-MU set out to promote the importance of Contemporary Art and Architecture as key pillars for Kuala Lumpur, the capital of modern Malaysia. It’s a small but meaningful contribution to nation-building—something with a longer-lasting impact than just sights and good food.
Q: How would you describe the identity of UR-MU? How has it distinguished itself from other contemporary art spaces in Malaysia?
A: UR-MU is a private urban museum located in the heart of the city center, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the contemporary art movement through works spanning the last 50 years. While the museum is not large, it is impactful. Designed for 45-60 minute visits to suit the fast-paced, modern lifestyle, UR-MU offers a convenient yet rich art experience for visitors with busy schedules.
Supporting Diverse Artists
Q: UR-MU showcases a variety of contemporary artists. How do you decide which artists to represent, and what qualities do you look for in both emerging and established talent?
A: We select works of “museum” quality—well-executed pieces that resonate with the collector, who is an architect with over 30 years of experience practicing in the Asian region. The collection reflects the personal taste of the collector, which in turn shapes the gallery’s identity.
UR-MU’s Global Perspective
Q: As an art space with both local and international exposure, how does UR-MU engage with the global art community while maintaining a deep connection to its Malaysian roots?
A: We recognize that art and architecture know no national boundaries. To connect with the global community, we maintain a strong social media presence and are actively involved in art education and pioneering art-wellbeing projects.
Q: In what ways does UR-MU seek to position Malaysian artists on the international stage? Are there specific projects or partnerships that you are particularly proud of in this regard?
A: Artists whose works are collected and exhibited at UR-MU gain international exposure and have come to the attention of regional collectors. We also collaborate with international galleries and exhibitions to provide continuous exposure for these artists.
Q: Could you share any success stories where an artist represented by UR-MU has achieved international recognition or exhibited abroad?
A: As a museum, we do not officially represent artists. However, we collect their works and showcase them. Notable artists such as Nadiah Bamadhaj, Ahmad Zakii Anwar, Jailani Abu Hassan, Hisyamuddin Abdullah, Chong Siew Ying, Yi I-Lan, Tan Zi Hao, and sculptor Multhalib Musa have all gained international recognition and exhibited abroad.
Exploring Trends in Malaysian Contemporary Art
Q: What current trends in Malaysian contemporary art excite you the most, and how are these trends reflected in the exhibitions hosted at UR-MU?
A: Digital art, video graphics, pop art, and street art are particularly exciting, and they align well with the emerging metaverse. We collect these types of works under our “Future Art” section, which aims to explore cutting-edge trends in the art world.
Q: Do you see any particular shifts in the artistic landscape in Malaysia, such as the influence of digital art, social activism, or cultural fusion, in the works of the artists you represent?
A: While we do not officially represent artists, we do notice a growing trend toward the metaverse and AI disruption. These technological shifts will be significant in the future of art, and we are watching this development closely.
Q: Given Malaysia’s cultural and ethnic diversity, how do you see traditional or indigenous practices interacting with contemporary art movements in your gallery’s programming?
A: The debate between art vs. craft is ongoing, especially given Malaysia’s strong tradition of craftsmanship. As a contemporary art museum, we lean toward the “art” side of this conversation, though we will continue to explore and engage with these traditional practices.
Engagement and Community Building
Q: What role does UR-MU play in the local art community? How do you engage with local collectors, curators, and the broader public to foster a deeper understanding of contemporary art?
A: We regularly host gatherings, show openings, networking sessions, painting and drawing sessions, art education programs, tours, and talks by artists. These activities serve both artists and the general public, helping to foster deeper understanding and connection to contemporary art.
Q: How do you create a space that encourages dialogue and interaction between artists and audiences, especially through exhibitions and events?
A: We find that informal gatherings and networking sessions are highly effective for fostering dialogue. In Malaysia, food, drinks, and great art make for a potent combination that encourages interaction and collaboration.
The Future of UR-MU
Q:Looking ahead, where do you see UR-MU in the next five to ten years? What direction do you envision the gallery taking in terms of its exhibitions, artist relationships, and broader role in the art scene?
A: We’re just over two years old and still navigating our journey towards maturity. It’s been an exciting ride with much support from the community. In the future, we look forward to contributing to the creation of a nation and city that takes pride in its architecture and art—ushering in a golden age of sorts.
Q: As the art market continues to evolve, how does UR-MU plan to adapt and continue growing as a hub for contemporary art in Malaysia?
A: We will grow and evolve with the art market. Art and design never stop evolving, and we are committed to staying adaptable and innovative as the industry progresses.
The Cultural Significance of UR-MU
Q: How do you feel UR-MU contributes to the cultural landscape of Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia as a whole? What impact do you hope the gallery has on the future of art in the region?
A: A bankrupt nation is devoid of good art and architecture. We hope that UR-MU can play a part in raising awareness and fostering a love for art in Malaysia and the region. A new golden age for Malaysia, no less. As a private museum, we’ve shown that such ambitious endeavors can be realized, proving that great things can stem from the smallest and quirkiest of ideas.