By Anne Das
Ipoh-born artist and landscape architect Michael Lip is currently exhibiting 65 of his paintings at 22 Hale Street Heritage Art Gallery, alongside A Blessed Journey, his autobiography.
The exhibition runs until October 11, giving visitors just a few more days to see his work, buy selected pieces and pick up a copy of the book.
The exhibition opened with the launch of Michael’s autobiography on September 26, bringing together friends, fellow artists and former schoolmates at the gallery.
Michael’s interest in art began early. A proud alumnus of St Michael’s Institution in Ipoh, he developed an interest in drawing and painting during his school years.
Growing up in a family of 12, he was influenced by his mother and artistic sisters, while his school art teachers encouraged his talent.
He later ventured into fashion design, with his illustrations appearing in publications such as Her World and the Malay Mail.
Architecture eventually became his profession.
His professional portfolio went on to include major projects such as The Banjaran Spa & Hot Springs Retreat and The Haven Lakeside Residences in Ipoh, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Mangala Spa & Resort in Pahang and Berjaya Le Morne Resort & Casino in Mauritius.
Art, however, remained part of his life.
Michael works in acrylic and watercolour, often incorporating layering, mixed media and soft textures into his paintings.
The exhibition is a chance to see just how wide Michael’s creative world is. His subjects range from people and landscapes to heritage, culture and the familiar architecture of Ipoh. Some works are bold and expressive, while others are softer and more detailed.
Together, they show the eye of someone who has spent decades working with buildings, gardens, form and design.
For visitors, that means there is plenty to look at beyond a single style or subject, with pieces that feel personal and local.
Also featured is A Blessed Journey, Michael’s autobiography. The book traces his creative development, career, family, friendships and the people who have shaped his life. It also touches on the challenges and joyful periods of his personal and spiritual journey.
Michael described organising the exhibition and writing his autobiography as “a great and satisfying experience.”
Visitors can also take home more than paintings and the book. The gallery has miniature paintings on tiles, Michael’s hand-painted T-shirts, postcards and gift cards featuring his artwork and Ipoh’s colonial buildings.
And this will not be the last chance to see Michael’s work in Ipoh.
From October 24 to 31, he will be showing at a different venue as part of CHANGE, the 2026 Perak Contemporary Art Festival. Presented by the Ipoh Fine Art Class, the exhibition will be held at 1 Jalan Lasam, Ipoh.
For more information on CHANGE, visit: https://1lasam.com.my/event/pcaf-2026-change-exhibition/
The Art of Michael Lip ~ A Blessed Journey Details: –
📍 22 Hale Street Heritage Art Gallery, Ipoh
📅 Until October 11, 2026
🕙 10am to 6pm
📞 Michael Lip: 019 222 5660
