Oil painting on canvas is the forte of 21-year-old Khairul Amri bin Ibrahim. “First of all, what I can see is that art is universal. My artwork is my self-expression and it delivers a clear objective message. It leans towards contemporary art as it is unlimited,” he explained.
According to him, art is a powerful medium capable of changing people’s perception of things and thus is very important for the community.
“The artwork that I am most proud of is my painting titled ‘Dirty Soul’, because that was my first painting to be showcased in the HOM Art Trans Gallery in 2016 and also my first to be sold,” the Ipoh boy enthused.
He remembers vividly what the collector had said then which was, “One day when you have become an artist, I hope you’ll remember that I have your first painting in my house.”
His interest in art dated back to his primary school days. With a diploma in fine art from UiTM Seri Iskandar and a degree in the same field from UiTM Shah Alam, artists who have continued to inspire him are Suhaidi Razi and Ruzzeki Harris.
His creation, ‘The Myth of Humans’ was shortlisted in the fine art category of the Nando’s Art Initiative this year, a first-time participation that marked his first step into the art scene in Malaysia.
When asked for his thoughts on the Perak art scene, he stated, “It needs deeper exposure”. He is proud of the historical heritage and culture of his hometown.
“Next, I wish to join Art for AIDS. One creative medium that I have yet to pursue is the combination of sculpture and painting,” he concluded.
Interested readers who would like to find out more can contact him at 017 522 5416 or email at amri.ibrahim96@gmail.com. Also, check out his Instagram: @khairvlamri_
Next issue, we will be concluding the exclusive interview series of Perakean artists from the Nando’s Art Initiative with a feature on Lukman Hakim bin Mohd Bahari who turned his passion in fine art from hobby to career. Watch this space!
Mei Kuan
