Beneath the dark, textured surfaces lie an unusual medium – organic fertiliser.

“Atas Dasar”, created by 27-year-old Muhamat Ammar Idris, uses about 20kg of fertiliser mixed with polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glue and acrylic. The result? A dense, layered surface that mirrors his own creative journey.

The Kulim, Kedah-born artist traced his choice of material back to a four-month residency in Karak, Pahang, where he spent time with farmers and became more familiar with the properties of fertiliser.

Over time, it took on symbolic meaning. For him, fertiliser represents growth – something that resonates deeply with his evolving practice, shaped by experimentation and continuous learning.

Although the 1.5m-by-1.8m artwork was completed within a week, the groundwork took much longer. He spent nearly two months on research and development, refining the right balance of materials to achieve the desired effect.

The process itself proved demanding. “I would mould the fertiliser together with PVA glue, then pour it onto the canvas surface to dry under the sun,” Ammar explained.

Indeed, sunlight was essential – without it, the structure weakened. “Using a fan slowsed the process and made the structure more fragile. If it rained, the process was disrupted,” he added.

Once dried, the material would be manipulated further. Ammar applied collage techniques – pulling, tearing and rearranging the hardened layers to build texture and depth.

Colour, too, plays a deliberate role. Blue tones introduce a sense of emotional duality, suggesting calmness or melancholy; while black reflects the natural character of the material and anchors the composition.

The finished work, both raw and considered, is priced at RM12,000.

“Atas Dasar” is among 22 pieces featured at the Iltizam Alir Exhibition, alongside works by fellow emerging artists Aliff Danial, Khairanee Iro and Mairul Malek.

Iltizam Alir Exhibition (free admission)

When: Until May 16

Where:
Sareng Gallery,
Level 8, Menara Chan,
138, Jalan Ampang,
50450 Kuala Lumpur