Russian artists to capture local scenes for book

Art your service: Anisimov (centre) and Duishenova (left) admiring the portrait by Yausheva at Homestay Sungai Pasu in Raub, Pahang.

RAUB: A group of Russian artists on a three-week tour of the country will compile their works of local landscapes and people in a coffee table book to promote Malaysia.

Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen, who disclosed this, said the ministry was also looking at having flights from Russia to help boost tourism between the two countries. “Right now there is no direct flight from any city in Russia to Malaysia,” she said at the Sungai Pasu homestay where the 10 Russian guests are staying.

“Russia is a new but growing market for us,” said Dr Ng, adding that 24,198 tourists from that country visited Malaysia in the first six months of the year. This is an increase from 18,881 visitors over the same period last year.

Renowned artist Vladimir Anisimov, who heads the group, said their works on Malaysia would be showcased at an exhibition in Russia next year. He added: “We are impressed by the unity and harmony. This is the first time Russian artists have come here to capture the local scenes. It is unique.”

The group has so far visited Kuala Lumpur and Malacca, where they have painted and drawn various landscapes and historical places, including Dataran Merdeka.

Translator Zeinep Duishenova said the group would head to Taiping after their three-day stay in Raub and later to Alor Setar, Langkawi and Putrajaya before returning home. During their stay here, the Russian visitors will paint and photograph the kampung scene, They will also experience local cuisine and way of life.

Painter Mikhail Stoiachko was seen painting a serene village scenery while another painted a portrait of 12-year-old Muhammad Akmal Zaidi, who was dressed in a baju Melayu. “I was captivated by his demeanour and because he represents Malaysia,” said painter Olga Yausheva. Stoiachko was impressed by the country's architectural buildings, landscape and diverse culture.

Lyoudmila Youga, who is here with her husband and art photographer Nikolay Pogorelov, was impressed by the friendliness of the local people. “I can feel the warmth, especially from our host family,” she said.

-thestar online.