Nine local artists are presenting works related to ship-building and sailing in a marine-themed exhibition titled “2025 Art Power Jamming – ‘Sails of Legacy’” located at the 10 Fantasia gallery on Calçada da Igreja de S. Lázaro (瘋堂斜巷).
The exhibition, organised by the Ark-Association of Macau Art (AAMA), is now in its final three days, with members of the public able to view the works through Saturday. Those visiting will find wooden model ships, along with paintings, and mixed media works.
A statement displayed at the gallery highlights Macau’s once booming shipwright’s art, which existed in Macau for many centuries and had a key role in the city’s economy, achieving its golden era in the 1980s when shipyards constructed fishing vessels and cargo ships, as well as building government vessels.
However, with increased competition in neighbouring areas as well as a downturn in fishing, the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) noted on their website that the industry began to decline in the 1990s. All local shipyards are now closed.
The statement noted, however, that Macau’s remaining shipbuilders, thanks to government support, have been invited to pass on the craft to members of the public by teaching them how to make model ships over the past decade. And with the ongoing exhibition, the statement said, it aims to provide everyone with an understanding of the history of local shipbuilding, adding that viewing works related to the craft as well as sailing can “help transmit the skills in a new way”.
Art lovers, enthusiasts and other members of the public may catch the exhibition at Room C03, open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Photos: Rui Pastorin
