Distant Gold illustrates Raphael Scott Ahbeng’s signature composition exhibiting his unique ability to depict the spirit of his surroundings and inject his own personality into his works. The trees are positioned on the left side while what seems to be bushes in blue hues create a beautiful element in the scene. In the distance, a mountain in rich yellow and brown hues appear to be the centre of attraction which draw the viewer in at first glance. From his secluded studio in Bau, Sarawak, Raphael Scott Ahbeng (RSA) still paints on a variety of subjects and styles, with his métier being abstract. Given his first solo in 1954, he took up an Art and Photography course at the Bath Academy of Fine Art in England (1964-1967). He also took up Drama in London in 1973 under a Sarawak Government scholarship. His awards include 1st Prize in the Sarawak Shell Open (1959, 1982, 1983), and 3rd Prize in the Natural Malaysia art competition in Kuala Lumpur in 1991. A Bidayuh, RSA is an artist (professional since 1990), a teacher, a photographer, a newspaper cartoonist and a radio producer. His solo exhibition Legend: A Borneo Artist at PINKGUY Gallery, showcases the complete oeuvre of Raphael’s 60 years of work. This is a magnificent example of nature at its best.