Impressions of the Majestic Rainforests of Borneo

It was indeed an experience visiting Michael Lim at his home. Michael is a batik artist from Sarawak highly regarded for his grand depictions of the flora and fauna of the majestic rainforests of Borneo.

His abode was as welcoming as his person. As we entered his compound, we were greeted by his big-hearted hospitality and a spontaneous environment of shrubs and trees surrounding his idyllic, open-concept home and studio. We reclined and soaked in the atmospheric surroundings while listening to Michael wax lyrical on art and living.

Flora & Fauna of the 'Green Island'
Michael has devoted his life to creating artistic impressions of the people and landscapes of Borneo, and for more than 30 years now, has painted prolifically and exhibited in major cities around the world. He is famous for his paintings of orchids, pitcher plants and birds of Sarawak, particularly the hornbill which holds a special place in the legends of the 'Green Island'. Michael was also commissioned to paint for many distinguished individuals and organisations including Sarawak state ministers, the Sultan of Brunei and Petronas.

The Artist & His Work
His true-to-heart nature and back-to-basics approach struck me when we spoke. Art is real and precious when the artist appropriates who he is into his work, and it is such works as Michael's that The Mandarin's Loft is committed to find and offer to discerning art lovers.

There is life, movement and spontaneity in Michael's paintings, and upon closer look, one could almost see random stalks of wild orchids swaying in the passing breezes, hear the symphonies of birds and crickets, and experience the tranquility of the virgin forests. Like good wine, Michael's art invites you to discover new things and perspectives each time you return to it.

Michael interweaves incisive detailing with pleasant subtleties in his art. The changing hues of the sky could be observed as you peek through openings in the dense green canopy. As you explore the complex ecology, you could chance upon the occasional squirrel or anteater, or even discover a brilliant bouquet of wild white orchids partially hidden by a mix of leaves and vines.

The Singapore Collection
The Mandarin's Loft is pleased to partner Michael Lim to organise and offer a limited collection titled 'Impressions of the Majestic Rainforests of Borneo' in Singapore. More details will be provided soon. For initial enquiries, contact Wan Chung or Sharon at 96524814 / 96223770.

The Straits Chinese Collection (Ceramic Art)

The Mandarin’s Loft is proud to present a 4-piece series of ceramic replicas of Antique Straits Chinese (Peranakan) Porcelain masterfully crafted by a true-to-heart Chinese artist. These exquisite pieces are individually mounted on 16x16-inch glass-enclosed frames, & together they offer a splendid representation of the vibrant & colourful culture of the Peranakan Chinese. [Click on images to check out the fabulous detail work]

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Who The Peranakans Are
The Peranakan Chinese, also known as Straits-born Chinese, are descendants of Chinese traders who settled in Malacca & around the coastal areas of Java & Sumatra as early as the 14th century & married local women. In the 19th century, the Peranakan Chinese, drawn by commerce, migrated to the bustling ports of Penang & Singapore. Theirs was a unique hybrid culture, which is still an integral part of Singapore's heritage.

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Peranakan Porcelain
Porcelain is an important part of the Peranakan or Nyonya household. Most of these wares have intricate motifs of flowers, butterflies & phoenixes in bright yellow or rose-pink, unlike typical Chinese porcelain. Most of these porcelain pieces have become collectors’ items.

For enquiries, please contact Wan Chung (9652 4814) or Sharon (9622 3770).