A Milestone for the Deaf Community
With the support of the Malaysian Sign Language and Deaf Studies Association (MyBIM), the Deaf community in Malaysia achieved a significant milestone by producing twelve BIM (Malaysian Sign Language) poems. This collection includes my own contribution, Anthony’s Walls, released in February 2021, alongside 11 other captivating BIM poems performed in February, March, and October 2022. This creative endeavor was made possible thanks to the generous support of the British Council and the Krishen Jit Fund, which provided the resources needed to bring our vision to life.
The Artistic Transformation of BIM Poems
What truly fascinates me is the unique way BIM poems can transcend language and transform into visual artistic expressions. I am currently admiring one such piece created by Nicholas Sheum, an artist who brilliantly interpreted the spirit of the poems. His artwork features a dynamic portrayal of hands set against a deep black background on paper, symbolising the fluid movements of BIM. The intricate arrangement of hands seems to come alive, capturing the essence of the poem in a visual form. The experience is mesmerising—as soon as I laid eyes on the piece, I couldn’t look away. The hands appear to move and communicate, as if the art itself were speaking through sign language. Can you imagine that? I believe it’s an experience best understood in person—you have to see the artworks for yourself to fully grasp the depth of emotion they convey.
The experience is mesmerizing—as soon as I laid eyes on the piece, I couldn’t look away
Dr Anthony Chong
Experience the Artworks in Person
This artistic journey culminated in the creation of 12 artworks, each inspired by 6 selected poems from the 12 produced in 2021 and 2022. These pieces invite viewers to engage with BIM in a new way, blending language, movement, and visual art. The artworks will be showcased in an exhibition that offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the fusion of sign language and artistic expression.
Date: 16 – 18 December, 2022 (Friday to Sunday)
Time: 12pm to 12am
Venue: Bukit Kiara Equestrian Resort, Kuala Lumpur—an ideal space to reflect on the beauty of these artworks.
Meet the Artist and Learn More
The artist, Nicholas Sheum, will be present at the exhibition from 2pm to 6pm on all three days to discuss the creative process behind each piece. This is a rare chance to meet the artist in person, learn about the inspiration behind the artwork, and gain a deeper understanding of how BIM poetry can be visually translated. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in a world where language, culture, and art intersect, and to experience the profound impact of BIM poems through these extraordinary artworks.
Leave a Reply