Hoan Gallery to present Marvin Chew's First Solo Exhibition in Kuching

Hoan Gallery is proud to present “Memories of Home”, the first solo exhibition by acclaimed Sarawak-born watercolourist Marvin Chew. Open from Oct 10 to Nov 9 at La Promenade Mall, the exhibition invites audiences to journey through Sarawak’s evolving landscapes—from bustling city streets to the tranquil rhythms of kampung life—through the artist’s eyes.

MAIN: Open from Oct 10 to Nov 9 at La Promenade Mall, free entry.

“Memories of Home” will feature approximately 60 artworks, with an estimated value of RM300,000, highlighting the breadth and depth of Marvin’s artistry. All pieces will be available for purchase.

Having spent years painting Singapore’s iconic skylines and vibrant urban life, Marvin’s return to Sarawak’s landscapes marks a significant new chapter in his artistic journey. “Memories of Home” presents works that bridge two worlds: the cosmopolitan and the natural.

Working in both watercolour and acrylic, Marvin captures fleeting moments with clarity and sensitivity, the play of light on water, the heaviness of humid afternoons, and the stillness of early dawn. His command of the mediums elevates everyday scenes into lasting reflections of place and memory.

AUTHENTIC: Marvin Chew

“At 50 years old, I am grateful for the international recognition my art has received; yet it is in Sarawak that my artistic journey feels most complete. ‘Memories of Home’ is therefore my gift to the place closest to my heart,” shared Marvin.

Eye-catching pieces such as Sibu’s Central Market, 2025 capture the familiar scenes of pavements still wet from freshly washed produce and the hum of conversations between locals. Equally evocative is My Beloved Hometown, Kuching City, 2025, which presents a bird’s-eye view of Kuching from Medan Pelita’s multi-storey car park. Once a familiar spot to catch a movie, it now echoes the nostalgia of a bygone era.

Through these scenes, Marvin transforms ordinary moments into vivid reflections of community and place, allowing viewers to experience Sarawak’s pulse in both its quiet details and bustling energy.

Highlights include Chance Encounter, Kapit’s Prahuu’, Open Air Market, Stillness in Blue, Market Medley and My Beloved Hometown, Kuching City.

NOSTALGIC: Chance Encounter (2025), Kapit’s Prahuu (2025), Open Air Market (2025), Stillness in Blue (2025), Market Medley (2025), and My Beloved Hometown, Kuching City (2025).

“His paintings awaken childhood memories that many of us share. I hope this exhibition reminds us that Sarawak is more than a homeland; it is where our roots remain, no matter how far we wander.” said Hoan Kee Huang, Gallery Director.

“In many ways, his paintings preserve our collective memory, ensuring that the stories of Sarawak live on for years to come. It is a privilege for Hoan Gallery to share these works with the community, and to celebrate Marvin’s journey home through art.”

DEDICATION: Marvin Chew painting on-site across Sarawak, 2025

Throughout the month-long exhibition, visitors can witness live demonstrations and take part in art-sharing sessions at Hoan Gallery, creating opportunities for closer interaction with the artist and fostering a deeper appreciation of Sarawak’s artistic heritage.

For more information, visit hoangallery.com or follow @HoanArtGallery. Exhibition updates will also be shared on lapromenademall.com.my and @LaPromenadeMall on social media.