On 4th August 2016 the new BNM Governor Datuk Muhammad Ibrahim launch the “Works on Paper: Art Inside the Wallet” exhibition at Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery. Thirty banknotes dating from the 14th to 21st centuries from over 10 countries will be on display beginning Aug 4 until Nov 30 at Sasana Kijang.
This exhibition takes a new look at old subject matter. Banknotes have existed for
centuries and are often masterpieces of design, with the added ingenuity of security
features. Work on Paper : Art inside the Wallet Highlights the artistry of these
miniature marvels and the practical challenges of the banks that issue them. It is a
chance to enter a world that us usually unappreciated and unseen inside our wallets.
Although they are usually unseen, banknotes have much in common with works of art.
Both categories of 'works on paper' are filled with thought and creativity. They are
usually crafted from quality materials and are finished with a signature and sometimes
a date. Although the size of a banknote doesn.t conform to the typical canvas, they are
countless examples of art that is made equally intimate dimensions.
Bank Negara Malaysia has never been left behind in the quest to produce banknotes
of distinction. The most recent series is as colorful and innovative as any in circulation.
Malaysia has not ignored the highest priority of all. The paramount importance of
security brings an additional dimension to the work of the designer, printers and banks
that collaborate to produce even the most basic of banknotes. The purpose of this
exhibition is to welcome you into that largely hidden world.
