Mandala No.1
Floral motifs are common element in Malaysian batik. Flora are often displayed to avoid the interpretation of human and animal images as idolatry, in accordance with local Islamic doctrine. Images must be abstract or decorative. However, insects like butterfly are common exception
This work strives to express the harmonious relationship between man and nature. I was intrigued by man's ever-changing relationship to his natural surroundings. Man's dependency on nature for daily sustenance often resulted them to exploit any available natural resources/space for monetary gains. It results in man overlooking the true purpose of nature. Its subtle beauty, from time to time, reminds us of its sanctity in the cycle of life; which is slowly disintegrating and diminishing in this fast pace world.
In this work, I break away from traditional Islamic art practice by including human/fauna motifs although they are depicted in an abstract manner. The color scheme extrapolates the vibrancy of nature in its sacred relationship to mankind.