A Character in Another's Story

Nestled on the island of Penang, Georgetown is a town like no other. It's a place where the rich tapestry of Thai, Malaysian, and Indian cultures seamlessly blend, giving birth to a unique and captivating fusion of traditions. But this town's incredible story isn't just etched into its buildings and streets; it's told through the incredible art that adorns its walls. 

The art of Georgetown, in many ways, mirrors this amalgamation. Ernest Zacharevic, a gifted artist, has played a pivotal role in this narrative. His art serves as an invitation for people from all walks of life and corners of the world to join in and add their own brushstrokes to the canvas of Georgetown's identity. Ernest Zacharevic's art installations are not just picturesque, but also interactive. He has created a series of incomplete stories across the town, and in each piece, there is an opportunity for visitors to step in and shape their own narrative.

Georgetown's story is, much like these installations, a work in progress, and it invites all who visit to participate in its creation. This concept is more than just "Instagramable" art; it's a reflection of the town's evolving identity. The amalgamation of cultures in Georgetown has given rise to a new culture, one that doesn't solely belong to any one ethnicity but to all who call this place home and to those who visit. This is beautifully exemplified by Zacharevic's art, which invites everyone, regardless of their background, to engage with and contribute to Georgetown's ever-evolving narrative.

The Rise of the Modern Shrine

Pilgrimage has long been tied to places of significance—sites that hold deep cultural, historical, or personal meaning. While traditionally rooted in religion, the concept has expanded in today society, where cultural and architectural landmarks have taken on a similar role. In an era defined by global connectivity and cultural exchange, travelers embark on journeys to see modern wonders of the world—whether it is the Louvre in Paris, the Sydney Opera House, or the Guggenheim Museum. These structures act as modern shrines, not in the religious sense, but as places of deep cultural significance, embodying the spirit of a city, a people, or an era, attracting visitors to experience the essence of a place.

Many buildings of the past have endured, becoming global attractions and symbols of cultural identity and pride. These architectural marvels stand as testaments to craftsmanship and vision, captivating contemporary society. While design techniques, styles, and technologies have evolved, modern architecture often has a knack for recalling elements from earlier eras, blending the old with the new.

From left to right: Kiyomizudera Temple, Meiji Jingu Museum

Recently, I had an unexpected experience visiting the SongEun Art and Cultural Foundation in Seoul, designed by Herzog & de Meuron. The building itself, an imposing triangular prism thrusting toward the sky, immediately captured attention. However, its true impact lies beneath the surface—a vast underground gallery concealed below. From above, it feels like a dark abyss, evoking a sense of emptiness and even dread. But as I descended into the space, the atmosphere transformed. Light streaming from above cast a serene glow, creating a space that was both imposing and intimate. The silence, broken only by the echo of my footsteps, made the experience feel deeply personal prompting me to reflect on both the space itself and my place within it.

This moment brought back memories of my visit to the Sacré-Cœur in Paris years ago. The awe I felt there was immediate, the towering Romanesque design evoked a sense of grandeur and connection to something ethereal. Both buildings share a monumental scale that made me feel small, yet while the Sacré-Cœur impressed with its intricate craftsmanship, the SongEun Art and Cultural Foundation—a modern, non-religious space—captivated through its minimalist design and simplicity.

Top left and right — The SongEun Art and Cultural Foundation, Bottom Left — The Basilica of Sacré Cœur

The built environment plays a fundamental role in shaping cultural identity and collective memory. Architecture is more than just a physical backdrop, it influences how people experience, interpret, and connect with a place. Over time, spaces take on different meanings as different people experience them in unique ways, shaped by personal perspective. As visitors come and go, their stories become intertwine with the journeys of those who seek them out. This is further amplified by social media, where photos, videos, and stories—like this blog post—are posted online, turning personal experiences into global narratives.

In my opinion, a pilgrimage, whether in ancient or modern society, is always a journey toward discovery, inspiration and understanding.

From left to right: The Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center, Dongdaemun Design Plaza