From 19 February to 5 March 2022, G13 Gallery of Kuala Lumpur will be presenting Shafiq x Najib — a collaboration between Malaysian artists Shafiq Nordin and Najib Bamadhaj.
Having been active in the art scene for over 12 years, both artists are revered for their artistic sensibilities and styles. Other than solo exhibitions, the artists’ eye-catching works have also appeared in countless international and local art fairs. With a friendship that has lasted for more than ten years, this collaboration is a fusion of artistic styles of both artists — pop culture and pop surrealism. The exhibition is certainly a progressive move for the Malaysian art scene and a platform for a cultural conversation amongst locals and its western counterpart.
The exhibition will showcase twelve artworks that express both artists’ characterised art styles and techniques, as well as the distinctive interaction between the duo. It is not often that two artists can paint on the same canvas, as one might overshadow the other or opinions and perspectives might clash. In this case, however, it works brilliantly and loudly.
The pieces feature the same monochrome woman in various colourful, batik-like traditional wear, which is where Najib Bamadhaj comes in. In some, she seems to be posing and in others, we see her in her natural state. Surrounding her are Shafiq Nordin’s vibrant illustrations and psychedelic imagery that are influenced by the styles of Takashi Murakami and Kaws.
The two contemporary artists’ creative signatures are clearly present in the collection and prompt us to ponder about the interactions they had while creating each piece. Shafiq Nordin and Najib Bamadhaj have truly demolished the gaps between traditional cultural art style and pop art. In turn, the artworks crafted pioneered fusions in art. Even though their respective styles are contrasting, which is also the beauty of it all too, the artworks remind us of what could be; the boundless possibilities of creative collaboration.
To quote American art critic Brian Sherwin, “Collaboration in Art — mutual respect, mutual work, mutual exposure.” Catch the forthcoming exhibition and witness the ingenuity between Shafiq Nordin and Najib Bamadhaj.
G13 Gallery aims to realise greater appreciation for Asian art and strives to develop synergy between domestic and international artists. The Malaysia gallery also recognises and collaborates with artists that show potential and depth in their craft.
Location:
GL13, Ground Floor, Block B, Kelana Square, Jalan SS7/26 Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
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