KUALA LUMPUR: THE love for nature and a deep passion for art have brought a group of young and talented artists together to organise an exhibition at Balai Berita, titled Untamed Bloom, which showcases their unique and distinct style.
Among them is Raja Azeem Raja Azham, a self-taught artist who graduated from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) with a degree in architecture.
“I have always been fascinated with art and enjoy painting since I was young. However, my father advised me to take up architecture after finishing secondary school as the job offers a promising future.
“After graduating, I worked as a designer for two years before deciding to call it a day and become a full time artist as the job did not feel right to me,” said Azeem, who is also known as Ajim Juxta.
Azeem said he was aware that his career path was riddled with hurdles but was determined to follow his calling.
“Every job has its challenges. We just have to learn to adapt to situations, work hard and never give up,” said the 31-year old.
Azeem’s works focuses on the dark and creepy side of nature, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea but still captivating to art lovers.
“I love drawing lines, creating shapes and objects based on my imagination. I like it when my work raises more questions than giving answers,” he said, adding he had learnt a few tricks on improving his skills from other artists.
Fellow artist, Duraton Hannani Amir, 32, is also a graduate from UiTM and had worked as a fashion graphic designer for four years before quitting her job to become an artist in 2009.
“I learnt to paint in 2007 and in the same year, I participated in an art bazaar and started doing online promotion of my art works.
“I have to admit that it was tough financially in the first few years but the joy of painting have kept me motivated to follow my dreams,” she said.
Duraton, who hails from Shah Alam, now spends most of her time in Mauritius to create art works on figurative or semi-abstract paintings inspired by the beauty of women and the colourful flora and fauna.
Mariyam Shany Ahmed, who hails from Maldives, also uses women’s natural charm and the environment as her inspiration but she has a distinct difference in style compared to Duraton’s pieces.
The youngest of the lot is 22-year-old Mohamad Harisudin Abd Rashid. He is the man responsible for uniting the talented artists for the exhibition.
“It has always been my dream to organise a group exhibition with those who are also inspired by nature yet distinct in style and skills.
“I believe this can attract more attention from art lovers and collectors,” said Harisudin, who just graduated with a Diploma in Illustration from the One Academy.
The Untamed Blood features over 30 pieces of art work and is currently featured at the lobby of The New Straits Times Press Bhd, in Jalan Riong, until Oct 31.