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The gallery fills itself with still life artworks and a kampung backyard installation

Petaling Jaya, 1 February 2023 – ZHAN Art | Space is thrilled to present a duo exhibition by Isa Ishak and Nazreen Nor titled ALAM which is inspired by the beautiful and vivid Malaysian village (kampung) scenes. Their love for the kampung life is translated into still-life artworks with Isa providing a more contemporary take, while Nazreen takes on a realism approach, attempting to represent the subject matter truthfully, without enhancing the subject. The exhibition aims to let the viewers appreciate the simple things and value the miracles offered by Mother Nature. The exhibition consisted of 33 unique artworks showcasing varieties of animals, items and objects found readily in a kampung.  

Isa Ishak (left) and Nazreen Nor (right)

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. As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, Isa took up gardening to pass time and distract himself from the uncertainties and uneasiness of the lockdowns. The hardship involved in growing crops made him realise the challenges farmers go through every day, and 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 gave him first hand insight on how to capture the kampung experience at its purest and most honest form. The curated collection presents a contrast of still-life artworks between two artists, not just on technique but also on perspective.

“Nazreen and myself 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 including the smallest things. A garlic for example, may seem rather small, but its usage whether in the kitchen or for medicinal purposes are extremely large, a feat not many plants can beat,” shares Isa Ishak.

“In conjunction with this year’s Chinese New Year celebration, we wanted to curate an exhibition that portrays the atmosphere of balik kampung, and bring that sentiment 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 the curated selection brings good memories to the audience and sets a reminder to appreciate the simple things in life.” said Desmond Tong, founder and curator of ZHAN Art | Space.

ALAM is scheduled from now until 25 February 2023, with prices ranging from RM 850 to RM5,200.