Datuk Mohd Nor Khalid, also known as Lat, has become the first cartoonist in Perak to be honored with the title of Seniman Diraja (Royal Artist). The recognition was awarded by Sultan Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah during his visit to the Lat Gallery House on Jalan Bemban in Batu Gajah on July 8.
Expressing his gratitude, Mohd Nor said, “I was in disbelief when Sultan Nazrin announced it, but I felt happy. It reminds me of my friends who are the royal painters. Just take a look at Selangor and Johor, the palaces have always recognized local arts. Therefore, I am thankful to Sultan Nazrin for giving me this recognition,” he told reporters at the gallery.
During the event, Sultan Nazrin praised Mohd Nor for his ability to capture the essence of life in a diverse society, representing the truths of living in a multi-racial, multi-religious, multi-cultural, and multi-lingual society.
Mohd Nor expressed his joy at the opening of the gallery to the public. He revealed that the idea for the gallery was originally suggested by Sultan Nazrin himself when he was still the Raja Muda. “He told me that it would be great to have all my artworks placed in a gallery in Ipoh. From there, I had several discussions with the state government and I decided to have the gallery in Batu Gajah, as it is located just 30 minutes away from my village, Kampung Lalang, Kota Bharu,” he said.
Mohd Nor also expressed his hopes for the gallery to offer art classes and workshops in the future.
The renowned artist from Perak had his first design published in 1962, when he was just 11 years old. Since then, his career has flourished, with his artwork being featured in various publications.
Commenting on his father’s excitement about the gallery, Mohd Nor’s youngest son, Hadi Mohd Nor, said, “From the moment he was given the idea, he couldn’t stop talking about it. He wants to bring his friends to the gallery, and since he is now residing in Ipoh, he is able to visit the gallery frequently.” Hadi also revealed that his father was the reason he and his older siblings ventured into the arts.
The Lat House Gallery, located on Jalan Bemban and less than 5km away from Kellie’s Castle, is a traditional Malay Perak Limas house. It consists of several sections, including the main building, two exhibition areas, Lat exhibition area, Lat art garden, a souvenir shop, a cafe, and an office. Managed by the Perak Museum Board, the gallery is open every day from 8am to 5pm.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
