‘Grey’ and ‘bleak’ are some of the choice words used to describe the cityscape and for many, it’s a rather apt description.
In truth, though, there is beauty to be found in the urban landscape; you only need to know where to look, and how to look for it.
For a refreshing change of perspective, head over to Artas Galeri this month. The Petaling Jaya art gallery is hosting an exhibition which may just open your eyes to the unique beauty of urban architecture.
“Kota Kromatik”, or “Chromatic City”, is the first solo exhibition by local artist, Izzuddin Basiron, 29, who grew up in Selangor as a city boy.
The exhibition, which will be held until the end of February, features ten vibrant and fascinating paintings by Izzuddin.
With his prolific use of colours, Izzuddin’s artworks almost demand your undivided attention.
In addition to bright, diverse hues, other distinctive features are the plethora of shapes and forms which streak across the canvas.
One might think that Izzuddin was inspired by children’s building blocks, albeit on a more sophisticated scale.
However, upon closer inspection, these supposedly random arrangements of columns and blocks resemble something familiar – real life urban landscapes.
According to Izzuddin, his paintings were directly inspired by photographs he took of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline.
Speaking to FMT about his work, Izzuddin said: “To me, art is a feeling which needs to be expressed on canvas for the sake of the public.”
He said he chose “Kota Kromatik” as the theme of his exhibition because it exemplified the nature of his current series of artworks.
“I was inspired by buildings within and beyond Malaysia, especially those featuring Brutalist architecture,” he said about a style that emerged in the 1950s, famous for its minimalist aesthetics and dependency on concrete and steel.
Famous Brutalist buildings in Malaysia include Bank Negara in Kuala Lumpur and the old Subang Airport in Selangor.
“’Chromatic’, on the other hand, is a musical term which refers to how different chords are harmoniously joined together. Likewise, the colours I use come together harmoniously,” he said.
He cites local art maestros Tajuddin Ismail and Choong Kam Kow as his inspirations, and one can clearly see the influence of their work in his.
Before embarking on a painting, Izzuddin takes a photograph of an area that speaks to him.
After studying the photograph at length, he sketches what he sees, before transferring his work onto the canvas to begin the painting process.
Creating his artworks can be a time-consuming task. The piece he is proudest of, “Putaran Data”, took a whopping four years to complete.
He admitted however, to never quite knowing when an artwork was truly and finally complete. “There are many times I stop, thinking I’ve completed a painting, only to add even more details to it. Rinse and repeat.”
According to Izzuddin, “Putaran Data” is based on a photograph he took at KL Sentral, and one might see it if they study the painting long enough.
To Izzuddin, painting shapes and forms in abundance spark joy in him. As does creating bright and colourful pieces as opposed to drab and dark productions.
“I hope my audience will walk away with a positive perspective. When I’m out in town, the city can feel congested and chaotic. Thus, I turn that feeling around through my artworks, to see the positive and cheerful side of the city.”
The use of bright colours, he said, often made those viewing his paintings smile, and that to him was all he really asked for.
Famed local architect and art collector Tan Loke Mun, who was the guest of honour at the launch, spoke highly of Izzuddin’s works.
“This young artist’s works are beyond local. They are at an international and universal standard,” he told FMT.
“I love the colours, the exuberance, and I believe that is something relevant to our time. It will stand the test of time and is future-proof.”
Izzuddin’s artworks are on display until the end of February. Check out Artas Galeri’s website, as well as Facebook and Instagram profiles for more information.
Artas Galeri
36, Jalan PJU 5/20D
Kota Damansara
47810 Petaling Jaya