Shalini Ganendra Fine Art Gallery Residence

Exterior view from the gated entrace

Tucked away behind small roads and neighborhood houses, is an understated grey structure which houses some great contemporary artwork from around the world. Designed by the world renowned architect Ken Yeang, the art gallery is deeply connected to the natural environment. With greenery surrounding the structure to cool and to provide natural aesthetic, this small art gallery modestly creates a comfortable and cozy environment to view and experience amazing Asian contemporary art.

Founded by Shalini Ganendra in 1998, the Shalini Ganendra Fine Art Gallery Residence has hosted many award winning artists and collections, such as Malaysian artist Zac Lee’s “Truth & Dare”, “Conversations in Yellow & Blue” and “Life of Pie”, New Zealander Chris Pole’s “Repeat Pattern”, Sri Lankan artists Sujeewa Kumari and Sanjeewa Kumara’s “Garden of Eden”, Sir Roy Calne’s “Art of Giving”, and Eric Peris’ “Tin Mine Landscapes”. In addition, SGFA Gallery Residence supports many programs, including Vision Culture Lectures, internships, Green To Go, Art Hug, and Designer Glaze.

Interior view of the 1st floor

Interior view of the 1st floor

The architecture of SGFA Gallery Residence strips visitors of the luxury of air conditioning and clutter, and brings them back to the simplicity of the color white and the bareness and comfort of Mother Nature. “We wanted something that would age gracefully,” says Ms. Ganendra, gesturing to the climbing vines over the raw concrete finish on the exterior walls. A wind tunnel and two turf ramps have also been built in as part of the gallery as a method of passive design to cool the gallery.

Many artists and curators have also stayed in SGFA Gallery Residence, as there are residential facilities, including rooms, a bathroom and kitchen. For artists, curators, collectors, and for general visitors, this gallery is a wonderful place to see and experience contemporary art.

Exterior view of the patio

Exterior view of the turf ramp and balcony

If you're an arts student, SGFA has a wonderful internship program to teach individuals about the aspects of gallery and arts management. Visit the gallery first, of course, and you'll find a small and comfortable environment with big learning opportunities. Interested? Send an email to sgfa@shaliniganendra.com.

While I visited the Shalini Ganendra Fine Art Gallery for academic reasons, I was very honestly completely in love with the natural feel of the building itself. Most art galleries that I've visited are cold and white, closed and air-conditioned or heated. Fortunately, Malaysia is tropical, and the climate is livable. Experiencing art in the comfort of this gallery was quite different, in a positive way, of course. For all the art lovers, I hope you get the chance to visit the gallery, and I hope you love it as much as I do.

Address:
8 Lorong 16/7b,
Seksyen 16
46350 Petaling Jaya
Selangor

For more information, please visit their website: http://www.shaliniganendra.com/

Or find them on Facebook.