Self-taught Sabah Chinese calligraphy artist showcases art works online

 By Olivia Miwil - February 12, 2021 @ 12:09pm

During the Chinese New Year, N. Poolohgasingam would be booked by many to conduct performances of his art work. - NSTP/ courtesy of N Poolohgasingan

KOTA KINABALU: A Chinese calligraphy expert in Sabah is shifting his focus to an online platform to showcase his works to the world.

Usually, during the Chinese New Year, N. Poolohgasingam would be booked by many to conduct performances of his art work.

Among his clients were a hotel and other business premises.

"This year, there were no invitations. Usually, on Chinese New Year's eve, I would be at a hotel doing my performance art on calligraphy for the hotel patrons.

"But I learnt that that the hotel only has a five per cent occupancy rate now, and there are not many people at the malls in the city either," said the 70-year-old self-taught calligrapher, who described how the celebration this year is different from previous years.

Fondly known as 'Poh Lo', the former businessman from Johor has been making a name in Sabah for more than two decades for his passion in Chinese calligraphy.

His exemplary work is not the only reason he is highly-sought after for public functions. During his live performances and demonstrations, he communicates well with everyone.

Apart from hotels and shopping malls, Poh Lo would usually be at the Sunday Gaya street market here, wearing traditional Chinese costumes to showcase his work to the public.

Knowing the risks of Covid-19 infection, Poh Lo has decided it is best to avoid crowded areas in continuing his passion.

"We will never know how long Covid-19 will affect our lives, livelihoods and health even after the vaccination programme (kicks off).

"But we must always have a plan B when things do not work well. Therefore, I decided to shift to an online platform to continue my passion.

"Of course, the income I get from my passion will not make me rich, but it makes me content."

He said people from other countries, including China, have told him how much they love his art works.

For now, Poh Lo is still developing a website which he will use to sell his calligraphy and creative photography works and to upload his live performances.