THE Hôtel de l’Industrie in Paris, a historic building long associated with intellectual exchange, recently became the stage for a Malaysian voice with a global message. Professor Lin Xiang Xiong, renowned humanitarian-artist and founder of the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery in Penang, unveiled his latest exhibition, The Vicissitudes of Life—a body of work that calls on art to move beyond aesthetics and into the realm of conscience.
Supported by key French institutions, the opening carried an air of significance. Former French president François Hollande lent his name as honorary patron, while former prime minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin attended in person—gestures that underscored the resonance of Lin’s message.
At the heart of the exhibition were 25 original works, grouped around three urgent themes: anti-war, anti-poverty, and anti-pollution. Together, they crystallised Lin’s vision of “Art for Peace”, a philosophy that seeks not only to be seen, but to provoke reflection, dialogue, and ultimately, change.
The exhibition was accompanied by a high-level symposium that drew international thinkers into the conversation. Scholars, philosophers, and cultural leaders—including French writer and activist Marek Halter, philosopher and sinologist François Jullien, and Swiss curator Barbara Polla—gathered to debate topics such as “Intercultural Dialogue at the Crossroads” and “Rebuilding the Concept of Peace through Art.” Amid these exchanges, Lin’s reflections on the times, on art, and on peace struck a deep chord.
Creativity as Activism
That spirit of dialogue extended beyond the gallery walls. On Sept 12, the inaugural Lin Xiang Xiong Art for Peace Prize was awarded, attracting an astounding 1,883 submissions from 100 countries. The overwhelming response not only validated Lin’s advocacy, but signalled a shared yearning for peace in a fractured world. The prize will return as a biennial event, further cementing its place as an international platform for artists who view creativity as activism.
For Lin, however, the work goes deeper than accolades. “This exhibition is more of an awakening of thought than a presentation of art,” he said, adding:
“Every brushstroke is a testimony of time, a silent dialogue between past and present, pain and healing. Whether through the exhibition or the Peace Prize, I hope art is not merely for admiration but can truly touch hearts, serve as a bridge between cultures, and awaken the soft conscience deep within humanity.”
Messenger of Thought and Conscience
The Paris showcase also signals the next chapter of Lin’s journey. By December 2025, the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery will open its doors in Penang. Spanning 8,000 square metres, it will house his major works while offering a platform for emerging artists across the region.
Positioned as one of Southeast Asia’s largest private art galleries, it aims to place Malaysia firmly on the map of cultural diplomacy and artistic dialogue.
With The Vicissitudes of Life, Lin has reaffirmed his belief that art can—and must—serve as a messenger of thought and conscience. His brush does not seek beauty alone; it seeks justice, healing, and peace. And as he continues to call upon artists worldwide to unite their voices, Lin makes clear that in the face of war, poverty, and pollution, silence is not an option.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
