While driving in Banda Hilir, I saw an advertisement atop a building looking for artists to exhibit their paintings.
I immediately stopped my car, took down the phone number, and called the lady when I got home.
I told her I was interested, provided my information, and spent the next few months preparing my portrait paintings in pastel, colored pencil, and pencil.
The year 2003 brought two major events: I graduated with my bachelor’s degree, and I held my first solo exhibition.
I was so blessed because my husband came to visit and attended both events!
He helped me with all the preparation, from transporting the art in my car to hanging every painting.
The official opening of the exhibition was something I’ll never forget.
I had long dreamed of having an art exhibition, and seeing how God made it happen was incredible.
My sisters and friends attended as guests.
I gifted a portrait to the speaker, the person who had so graciously appreciated the exhibition.
Following the event, I was interviewed by the local newspaper, and my story was featured in the New Straits Times.
I regard that exhibition as the official start of my professional art career, even though I had started my art much earlier.
I am so grateful to the friends and lecturers who helped make the exhibition a successful one.
Stay kreatif,
Siti
