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If you've ever snapped a photo with the famous Kids on Bicycle mural in George Town, you've already crossed paths with Ernest Zacharevic
But this July, the Lithuanian-born artist is steering the conversation away from Instagrammable street art and into something far more urgent: Southeast Asia's chronic exploitation of independent creatives.
Zacharevic's latest campaign, We Need To Talk, is a bold exhibition opening 5 July at Cultprint in Penang.
Combining immersive art, cheeky satire, and public forums, the exhibition pulls back the curtain on how corporations allegedly profit from artists' work without permission, credit, or compensation.
At the heart of the show is Zacharevic's own years-long battle to reclaim ownership of his Penang murals, which have been reportedly repurposed by businesses and tourism agencies without his consent
While the artist is known for his humour and whimsy, this time he's taking a more confrontational approach.
"This is bigger than me. Most artists don't have the legal or financial means to fight back. Worse, they're pressured to stay quiet," Zacharevic shared.
We Need To Talk sets out to change that by making the exploitation impossible to ignore, through creative disruption.
The Cultprint gallery will be transformed into an interactive airport terminal, complete with mock check-in counters, boarding passes, and even "sick bag" souvenirs
It's playful on the surface, but the theme is razor-sharp underneath.
Each installation offers commentary on systemic problems in the creative industry: from intellectual property abuse to the myth of the "starving artist."
Visitors can browse, interact, and even shop limited-edition merch designed to fund legal advocacy for artists.
On opening day, 5 July, Zacharevic will be joined by outspoken creatives for a panel discussion on IP theft
Among them: Fey Ilyas, who went viral earlier this year after accusing the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry of copying his agency's Expo 2025 concept; and Jun Ong, creator of the iconic "Star" light installation, who's also had to fend off unauthorised use of his work.
Also in the pipeline: a free IP Legal Clinic on 9 and 10 August, offering pro bono advice for artists navigating copyright and trademark woes.
Admission is completely free, but visitors can snag a themed "boarding pass" that unlocks exclusive artwork and limited-run merchandise
It's a playful take on airport travel with a purpose: all proceeds will go towards supporting Zacharevic's legal efforts and setting stronger protections for independent creatives.
The exhibition runs until 31 August, and if you're an artist, art lover, or just tired of corporations getting away with creative daylight robbery, this show is a must-visit.
Here are the full deets:
Exhibition dates
5 July – 31 August
Venue
Cultprint, 35 Lebuh Melayu,
10300 George Town, Penang
Admission
Free
Website: cultprint.co | Instagram: @cultprint
