by SeeFoon Chan Koppen
It is not often that an art exhibition stops you in your tracks—not because of spectacle or scale, but because of its quiet humanity.
Artistic Voices Across Three Generations, held recently at 22 Hale Street, did just that.
The exhibition brought together the works of three artists whose ages span almost a century, connected not by blood but by mentorship, encouragement, and a shared belief that art has no expiry date. On opening day, around forty invited guests gathered in the intimate space, creating a warm, conversational atmosphere rather than the usual hushed formality of gallery openings.
The Guest of Honour was YB Bahagia Datuk Muhammad Kamil bin Datuk Shafi, Chairman of Perak Tourism Management Berhad, who officiated the opening. In his speech, he touched on the broader significance of the exhibition in the context of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, noting that “the richness of our cultural and creative landscape are integral elements of tourism, offering visitors meaningful experiences that go beyond destinations and attractions, and allowing them to connect with the soul and stories of a place.” He added that Perak, in particular, possesses a depth of heritage that lends itself naturally to such cultural expression.
- The first artistic voice in the exhibition belongs to Datin Stella Lim, a 90-year-old artist, grandmother of five, and proud Ipohite. She began painting in oils in 2011, after the passing of her beloved husband, Datuk KK Lim, who had shared and supported her appreciation for the arts throughout their 46-year marriage. Shy by nature and never one to seek the spotlight, Datin Stella had previously allowed only her family to see her works. Her decision to participate in this exhibition was driven by a simple but powerful hope—to inspire other seniors and to show that it is never too late to try something new. Her paintings, abstract yet rooted in nature, flowers, landscapes and colour, feel contemplative and quietly joyful, carrying both memory and resilience.
Bridging generations is Lydia Chew, Datin Stella’s mentor and art teacher, who also serves as curator of the exhibition. Born in Penang and now based in Ipoh, Lydia is a passionate self-taught artist and a dedicated art educator. She is the Assistant Treasurer of the Perak Art Association and an active contributor to the local art scene. More importantly, she is the steady encouraging force behind both Datin Stella’s artistic journey and that of the youngest participant in the exhibition , Daniel Loo.. Her belief that art should be shared—not hidden—forms the emotional backbone of this three-generation dialogue.
The third voice is Daniel Loo, born in 2015, a remarkably talented young artist who began art lessons with Lydia Chu at a very young age. In addition to his visual work, Daniel is also an accomplished pianist, and during the opening he delighted guests with a short piano performance that added an unexpected and touching layer to the afternoon. His paintings carry the fearlessness and purity of youth—bold, instinctive, and unburdened by self-doubt—offering a striking contrast to the composed maturity of Datin Stella’s works.
Speaking on the wider impact of the exhibition, Datuk Muhammad Kamil noted that “beyond its artistic value, Artistic Voices Across Three Generations carries an important message for our community—that art remains relevant, accessible, and vital in shaping a cultured and creative society.” He added that “such efforts not only nurture artistic appreciation, but also strengthen Perak’s position as a state that values creativity, heritage, and human connection.”
What makes Artistic Voices Across Three Generations so compelling is not merely the contrast between youth and age, but the dialogue between them. Standing in the same room, the works speak across decades: the composure and wisdom of ninety years alongside the vitality and courage of nine. It is a reminder that art is not about technical perfection or recognition, but about honest expression.
After the formalities, guests lingered, as they often do when something has genuinely moved them. Conversations continued over a generous spread of snacks and light eats—simple, thoughtful, and convivial—befitting an afternoon that was less about ceremony and more about connection.
This exhibition carries a message worth repeating: it is never too late to begin, and never too early to create. As long as there is passion, encouragement, and the courage to pick up a brush, art will always find its voice.
So go and visit the exhibition which runs till March 8th.
23 Hale Street.
10am- 6.00pm
