Kota Kinabalu: What began as a casual visit to Mari Mari Cultural Village blossomed into a six-month creative journey for Japanese airbrush artist Yasu, resulting in a large-scale artwork now on display at the popular cultural attraction.
Yasu, 52, said his first visit to the village in March last year left a deep impression, inspiring him to capture Sabah’s diverse heritage through his art.
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“Though I have visited Kota Kinabalu several times, this was my first experience at Mari Mari Cultural Village.
“I admire how the management preserves and shares this culture with people unfamiliar with it. I was also surprised to see the staff enjoying their work — it motivated me to include their likenesses in my artwork,” he said.
Located about 30 minutes from the city, Mari Mari Cultural Village offers an immersive cultural experience, featuring traditional dances, ethnic homes, local cuisine, folk storytelling and other activities that celebrate Sabah’s communities.
After returning to Tottori Prefecture in Japan, Yasu continued the project remotely, collaborating closely with the village team. They provided photographs of staff members and scenic views of Mount Kinabalu, which later inspired the artwork’s warm sunset-inspired palette.
“I know sunset is very beautiful in Kota Kinabalu. Mount Kinabalu is a major symbol,” Yasu said.
His interest in animals and insects also influenced the inclusion of local wildlife in the piece. The artwork was created using airbrush and pencil techniques on recycled carton paper.
The original painting now greets visitors at the village entrance, while a replica serves as a backdrop for performances inside the hall.
Reflecting on the staff’s reaction, Yasu says, “They were very happy and surprised when they saw the picture for the first time. Everyone said it looked so real.”
