The best independent art galleries in KL

Wisma Central is a gem on its own; being one of the first commercial buildings in KL, the old building was specifically chosen by the owners of Prototype Gallery to house their art space, with the aim of revitalising the building and to capitalise on the nostalgic feel of the place. Located on the second floor, the gallery champions locally produced creative arts and the assimilation of the past and the future, believing that the past plays an important role in the exploration and development of new ideas. Prototype Gallery consists of two spaces: The gallery on level two, and a bigger exhibition space on level four which can host events like photography exhibitions and flea markets. Both spaces are available for rent.

PORT is an acronym for People Of Remarkable Talent, and PORT25 is a design collaborative based in PORTcommune, a space housed in a repurposed old warehouse-factory. The collective has been based there since August 2014, but only started full operations in July last year. With 2,380 square feet of space, plus a combination of smaller spaces that are suitable for different kinds of events, PORTcommune’s past roster of events has included fashion launches, art exhibitions and photography workshops. This year, the collaborative plans on actively promoting the space in the hopes that members of the creative industry will come together to share experiences and works under one roof.

Even though Minut Init Art Social was established in 2010, it was only recently (after organising events plus a rebranding exercise) that they became a familiar name in the art scene. Previously known as an independent gallery, Minut Init Art Social now considers itself an art social space. Its recent expansion and the acquiring of a second floor – equipped with a lounge area, a bar that serves food and drinks, and a mini library – have given the space the ability to host simultaneous events. What keeps art lovers coming back is the laidback vibe that offers a cosy viewing experience. Recently, Minut Init Art Social has been hosting plenty of other events besides art exhibitions like live gigs and more, but that’s just what we love about them – they welcome all forms of art.

This creative space, located in the neighbourhood of Taman Paramount, is situated just beside Awesome Canteen café. This roomy shoplot has organised many events from art exhibitions to what they’re more popularly known for, flea markets.