"Arts" and "art"

[Maybo]

When one thinks of Malaysian art, most likely what comes to mind are the murals in George Town, traditional batik, Peranakan embroidery and ethnic motifs. But as the 30 tenants at this creative hub deftly illustrate, the country has a burgeoning contemporary arts scene that embraces Malaysia's cultural diversity and celebrates its heritage while taking bold new steps.

For those wanting to explore alternative arts both cerebral and playful, from screen printing and archival graphic design to letterpress stationery and underground music, Ho says Zhongshan is a good place to start. She encourages travellers to also visit the National Art Gallery of Malaysia, the Islamic Arts Museum and Ilham Gallery, a private art museum prioritising public engagement. Also on the list of KL's essential destinations for the culturally curious is UR-MU (Urban Museum), a quirky contemporary art museum in Bukit Bintang.

More than murals: Connecting with Malaysia through its contemporary arts by SELAMAT KEMBALI

Why are there sometimes "art" with "s' and sometimes not? For example, "contemporary arts scene" and "contemporary art museum". When we use "arts", are we emphasising different kinds of arts?

 

[jutfrank]

Yes. When we say the singular 'art', we're basically talking about paintings, sculptures, and installations—things that you'd find at an art gallery. The plural word 'arts' covers much more than just that.