KL TO PLAY HOST TO MONA LISA

KUALA LUMPUR, 29 Jan (Bernama) -- Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, a 16th century oil portrait, will make its way to the capital if the plan gets the support of the private sector.

Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister Mohd Shafie Apdal said this
was part of the ministry's plan to woo tourists to the country through cultural
activities.

"We are making efforts to bring the masterpiece here this year just like the
smash hit Mama Mia musical recently," he told reporters after launching the
history chronicle of the National Art Gallery in conjunction with its 50th
anniversary here Thursday.

Shafie said he had discussed on the possibility of Kuala Lumpur playing host
to the da Vinci's epic and other renown works during his visit to Paris
recently.

He said the duration of the exhibition would depend on the discussion with
the French government.

"Mona Lisa will not only enthrall Malaysians but also those from
neighbouring countries. They can come to Kuala Lumpur to have a chance to see
the portrait instead of going to Paris," he said.

On the National Art Gallery, he said the construction of an additional
building costing RM20 million (US$5.55 million) for street artists would begin
this year.

He said when completed in 18 months, the artists could display their prowess
and sell their works to visitors.

"The building will provide ample space for street artists to display their
arts. We will organise a weekly promotion for them like in London and Paris," he
said.
-- BERNAMA