my Nya: the Nya in manekNya

Yesterday, Inner Joy Art Gallery came alive with the vibrant energy of tradition, artistry, and cultural pride during the opening ceremony of "Embroidered Memories: Tracing Heritage Across Three Generations." The event was nothing short of a joyous celebration, where art and heritage converged in a truly memorable experience.

Honourable guests who were present during the opening ceremony of "Embroidered Memories : Tracing Heritage Across Three Generations", an art exhibition that showcase Nyonya beadwork as a form of art by ManekNya

The ceremony was officiated by Datin Nazrin Aneeza Binti Nazaruddin, Advisory Council Member of MyKasih Foundation and Vice President of PETRONITA, and YBrs. Ts. Noor Azmi Bin Mat Said, Chairman of FRIM Incorporated Sdn Bhd and CEO of Human Life Advancement Foundation. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a highlight of the afternoon, with the two esteemed VIPs joined by Swee Lin and Swee May, the founders of ManekNya, as well as their mother and aunt - representing three generations of Nyonya artistry.

The atmosphere was festive and colourful, as many of our guests arrived dressed in traditional Baba Nyonya attire - ladies adorned in intricate and vibrant kebayas, while the gentlemen wore culturally inspired tops that echoed the richness of Peranakan heritage. The gallery buzzed with excitement, laughter, and conversations, creating an atmosphere that felt like a reunion of family and friends celebrating shared roots.

One of the key highlights of the afternoon was the special Nyonya beading demonstration by Swee May, co-founder of manekNya, which captivated the audience. Introduced and narrated by her sister, Swee Lin, also an artist and co-founder of ManekNya, the live demonstration gave attendees a rare and intimate look into the meticulous craft of Nyonya beadwork. Watching the beads come together under Swee May’s skilled hands was mesmerizing, offering a deep appreciation of this intricate art form passed down through generations.

"The Peranakan Peacock", the one and only beaded shoes that is available for sale for this exhibition. This is the only beaded items that we use 1mm glass beads. The others that were on display during the opening ceremony were part of ManekNya's personal heirloom collections

In line with the exhibition’s theme of celebrating Peranakan culture, guests were treated to a selection of vibrant Nyonya delicacies. Colourful Nyonya kueh, variety of fruits, with homemade dips of otak-otak sauce and semboi complemented the vibrant artworks on display. Each dish, like the beadwork, was a reflection of the rich heritage that continues to inspire generations. As a token of appreciation, guests were also gifted handmade bunga rampay (rampai) and dodol Melaka, adding a special touch to the day.

The day was filled with smiles, laughter, and a true sense of community. The stories shared, the art admired, and the lively atmosphere made it a day to remember. As the gallery’s walls echoed with admiration for the meticulously beaded creations, the opening ceremony truly embodied the spirit of "Embroidered Memories."

This "Peacock Serenade in Batik and Beads" are made up of 20,000 pieces of Nyonya beads embroidered on this unique batik cloth. This intricate artwork took 8 months for completion

Thank you, everyone for joining us in the opening ceremony of ManekNya first art exhibition, "Embroidered Memories : Tracing Heritage Across 3 Generations"!

Here are more photos from the opening ceremony yesterday to share with you and to be kept here for memory keepsake. :)

The art piece in the background is "The Pink Kamcheng: A Story of Heritage", featuring ManekNya's grandmother's shirt with Nyonya beadworks embroidered on it

Written by Inner Joy Art Gallery, 22 September 2024