ZHAN Art | Space is thrilled to present a duo exhibition by Isa Ishak and Nazreen Nor entitled “ALAM”, which is inspired by the beautiful and vivid Malaysian kampung (village) scenes. 

Their love for the kampung life is translated into still-life artworks with Isa providing a more contemporary take, whereas Nazreen takes on a more realism approach. 

The exhibition aims to let the viewers appreciate the simple things and value the miracles offered by Mother Nature. It comprises 33 unique artworks showcasing a variety of animals, items and objects found readily in a kampung. 

“Nazreen and I are extremely proud and grateful that ZHAN Art | Space supported our idea of showcasing the fruits of the village. We wanted to remind the audience to appreciate our surroundings, particularly the smallest things. 

“A garlic, for example, seems rather small, but its usage whether in the kitchen or for medicinal usage is extremely large, a feat not many can beat,” shares Isa. 

The curated collection presents a contrast of still-life artworks between two artists, not just on technique but also on perspective. 

The exhibition was first conceptualised as an idea to present the “hasil from the kampung”, or the fruits of the village, due to Isa’s growing passion for gardening. Isa took up gardening to pass the time during the Covid-19 pandemic, and to distract himself from the uncertainty and uneasiness of the ensuing lockdowns.

The hardship involved in growing crops made him realise the challenges farmers go through every day. It inspired him to present a collection of artworks that pay homage to the food that we eat. 

As for Nazreen, growing up at his father’s farm provided him with the know-how to capture the kampung experience in its purest and most honest form.

“In conjunction with this year’s Chinese New Year celebration, we wanted to curate an exhibition that portrays the atmosphere of balik kampung, bringing it to life. Isa and Nazreen were a perfect match to showcase a series of still-life artworks, along with a kampung backyard installation. 

“We hope that the curated selection brings good memories to the audience and sets as a reminder to appreciate the simple things in life,” said ZHAN Art | Space founder and curator Desmond Tong. 

Catch ALAM from now till Feb 25, 2023, at ZHAN Art | Space in Jaya One, Petaling Jaya. Admission is free with the artworks available for sale from RM850 to RM5,200. — TMR 

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• This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition