Raphael Scott Ahbeng Born in 1939 in the Bau district of Sarawak, Raphael Scott Ahbeng was one of the first Borneo artists to gain recognition for his art that embraces abstraction. Raphael’s first attempt to paint was at age 9, and he continues to paint even today and even after a recent hand operation. It has been over 60 years since his first painting, and Raphael has gone from strength to stre
ngth, always attempting to do better, be a better painter and does it with great passion and determination. A multifaceted character with many talents he has been a teacher of the Arts and English language, a cartoonist and even a radio producer, but his greatest ambition was always to be an artist. To date, he is the first most successful and renowned artist from Malaysia Borneo with collections at Petronas Gallery, the National Art Gallery Malaysia and more. Raphael Scott Ahbeng has an exceptionally strong signature utilising powerful and dynamic brushstrokes, as well as vibrant and intense colour schemes. Awarded a scholarship to Bath Academy of Art in England in 1964, Raphael traveled extensively in France, Spain Italy and Germany. It is in these travels that Raphael had the great opportunity to experience first hand the works of great European masters. His art is the sum of all his experiences, in Europe and in his time working in drama and radio. Innovative and holding universal appeal, it is no wonder that his works have travelled the globe to be part of international collections. Despite these influences and Raphael’s distinct modern international feel, at the heart of all his paintings is a strong sense of self. Culture, heritage, and a joyful homey feeling radiate from his boards and canvases, conveyed through striking colour and forms that mirror the monumental and boundless landscapes that make up Sarawak his home. Raphael’s artworks reveal his own unique and bold character.
