KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 11 — TRX City Sdn Bhd is hosting its first large-scale sculpture design competition, offering a RM50,000 grand prize for the winning entry.

Previously, the company had organised smaller art contests to enhance public spaces at Tun Razak Exchange.

Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications Maisara Ismail said the competition carries the theme “Intersection of Exchanges”, reflecting the district’s dual role as an international financial hub and cultural destination.

“We are looking for sculptures that embody this theme, works that represent life at the intersection of global ambition and local spirit.

“Importantly, the artworks should express Malaysian identity, while also being forward-looking and symbolising growth,” she said during the launch and judges’ announcement of the Art@TRX competition today.

She said the main category is open to Malaysians only, while the student category is open to Malaysian students abroad as well as international students enrolled in local institutions.

On whether the winning design would be fabricated, Maisara said six finalists would be selected, with TRX working alongside the artists to bring the winning piece to life.

She added that the actual production would be carried out by TRX and third-party partners, in consultation with the artists to ensure the design was scalable and appropriate for the environment.

Judge Ramlan Abdullah said one of the key considerations for artists was ensuring that the sculpture would be safe, environmentally friendly, and suitable for public use.

He noted that interactive works were possible, citing examples abroad such as water-based installations that successfully attracted children.

“Those are very successful pieces. But artists should remember to anchor their work in tradition and identity. Think about your own background, your own philosophy, how can you manifest that into a contemporary art form?” he said.

Agreeing with Ramlan, judge Jun Ong said the most powerful art often appeared simple at first glance, yet revealed many layers of meaning when examined closely.

He said a sculpture should not be overbearing or overcomplicated.

“My own practice has evolved into installation art, which often involves collaboration. We cannot do everything ourselves, so we work with diverse teams like technologists, designers and engineers to create multi-dimensional art,” Ong said.

He added that in a world of constant distraction, a successful piece must not only be visually strong but also able to engage people in a way that cuts through the noise of everyday life.