Balai Seni Lukis Negara also known as the National Art Gallery of Malaysia is based in Jalan Temerloh, off Jalan Tun Razak in Kuala Lumpur, and only a stones throw away from the National Theater and the National Library. The National Art Gallery was launched on the 28th of August 1958 by the first Prime Minister of independent Malaysia – Tunku Abdul Rahman, with only 4 artworks to exhibit within its makeshift premises at Malaysia’s first Parliament. Currently the National Art Gallery claims to house more than 2500 masterpieces of artists originating from both local and international arena in its permanent abode, which was officially inaugurated by the premier of Malaysia – Datuk Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohammed. The National Art Gallery boasts of a unique style, blending native motifs harmoniously with contemporary architecture, and claiming to a floor area of 13,000 sq m. The gallery serves as a repository for aesthetic creations and also hosts many events such as art competitions, seminars and workshops for professionals and students alike. In addition the gallery has also set its sights on preserving, developing, exploring as well as experimenting diverse aspects of Malaysian artistry. The gallery is open to you from 10am to 6pm daily, and the entrance is free of charge. You can conveniently arrive there by hiring a taxi or boarding a bus or train from the city of Kuala Lumpur. The National Art Gallery also provides numerous services to the visitors through its sculpture garden, photographic and graphic studio, creative center, library, auditorium, restoration area, outdoor exhibition area, book shop and the cafe. Being under the administration of the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism of Malaysia, the National Art Gallery acts as the official art institution of Malaysia, sustaining and promoting aesthetic awareness among the general public. The National Art Gallery is encircled by shopping malls, museums, parks, memorials and restaurants all located within a 4km radius from the gallery’s premises. You can choose to spend your nights conveniently at a budget hotel in Kuala Lumpur amongst the many hotels dotting the area like Citrus Hotel Kuala Lumpur. These budget hotels of Kuala Lumpur offer various facilities and services making you feel more at home during your stay in this aesthetically rich city.