1995–2003s | Early Newspaper Collages

Read, Collage and acrylic on canvas, 2006, 150 x 110 cm Collection: National Art Gallery Malaysia

Collages made from newspapers and magazines, painted with acrylic. Inspired by Jeri Azhari’s simplicity. Some have since entered the collection of the National Art Gallery Malaysia.

My practice began with simple collage — newspapers and magazines cut, layered, and painted with acrylic. Inspired by the late Malaysian pop artist Jeri Azhari, I embraced his belief that art does not require wealth, only time and process. These early works reflect a fascination with mass media imagery, reframed through a mosaic-like structure that questioned how stories are told and consumed. Though modest in material, the collages became foundational, setting the tone for later explorations with discarded matter. Several works from this period have since entered the collection of the National Art Gallery Malaysia, anchoring what would become a long journey of transforming the overlooked into art.

I swear..., Collage and acrylic on canvas, 150 x 110 cm, 12006, Collection: Private

Sip, collage and acrylic on canvas, 2006 Collection: National Art Gallery Malaysia

Home, collage and acrylic on curtain, 110 x 110 cm 2003

Sale, collage on curtain, 60 x 80cm, 2002

Collage, home studio view, 2010