Malay Cultural Identity In “Akal Di Mata Pisau” Juhari Said’s 1997
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24191/idealogy.v11i2.976Keywords:
Malay Cultural Identity, Juhari Said, Symbolism, Cultural Memory, Contemporary Malaysian Printmaking.Abstract
Juhari Said is a prominent Malaysian print artist who incorporates Malay cultural motifs and proverbs into his prints. Woodblock printing is an essential medium in the development of Malaysian visual arts since it not only focuses on technical issues but also serves to document the Malay community's cultural identity and values. This study aims to identify and analyse the representation of Malay cultural identity in the work “Akal Di Mata Pisau” (1997) through the use of Malay symbols and proverbs. The study also focuses on the application of symbols, metaphors, and Malay proverb elements to convey Malay cultural meaning. This qualitative study analyses selected works to see how the Malay community's beliefs and ideologies are expressed in visuals. In addition, this study employs an iconological approach to interpret the work's apparent and hidden meanings. Juhari Said's art preserves Malay cultural identity by processing traditional symbols related to moral values and cultural memory within the Malay community. The use of woodblock print techniques maintains the connection between traditional history and contemporary art. This research also helps to clarify the significance of print art in sustaining Malay cultural identity and heritage in the context of contemporary Malaysian visual art.
Keywords: Malay Cultural Identity, Juhari Said, Symbolism, Cultural Memory, Contemporary Malaysian Printmaking.
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