The Johor Art Gallery houses various art collections, artefacts and many items closely related to Johor's Malay heritage since its establishment in 1993. In 1999 however, the YAB Menteri Besar Johor announced that the Johor Art Gallery would also be the Arts and Cultural Centre for the State of Johor. Restoration efforts were undertaken to create an art gallery worthy to be known as one of the best in Malaysia.

A walk into the building proves to be an experience by itself. Strong colonial influences scream out in the design and architectural details of this 2-storey building. True to Malay customs, shoes are prohibited in the main display area downstairs; therefore one is required to peruse the displays and paintings barefooted. The main display area greets the visitor with beautiful works of art by various talented Johor-born artists. From paintings to sculptures and many other mediums of artworks are displayed here. The undeniable shared pride among the artists here is their apparent love for Johor's rich, cultural heritage that is still very much alive today. Favourite topics of interest includes the kuda kepang, the ghazal, beautiful calligraphy pieces. Fishing scenes is also prevalent. Tranquil pictures of small fishing boats tied to poles along coastal areas, fisher-folks coming home from the sea with their daily bounties, and many other eye pleasing, soul soothing works of art.

The upper level also showcases many beautiful art pieces, such as two ancient wooden doors with ornate carvings hung on the walls as you are walking up to the second floor. One can't help but stop to gaze at the fine craftsmanship eternally embedded on these two doors. Walking along the upper floor, you can also take a glimpse of the lower floor from the middle section, as there is an open space area from upstairs where a beautiful low hanging chandelier casting a soft yellow hues throughout the entire room.

For more information, please contact the Johor Art Gallery at 607-2263266.