Lot 42 | Auction XV

LOT 42

SHAFURDIN HABIB
(B. Perak, 1961)

Sejuk Air Pagi Ni, 2011
Signed and dated “Shafurdin Habib 2011” on lower left
Watercolour on paper
43.5 x 28.5 cm

Sudah Tu! Dah Nak Maghrib Ni, 2011
Signed and dated “Shafurdin Habib 2011” on lower right
Watercolour on paper
43.5 x 28.5 cm

Provenance
Private Collection, Kuala Lumpur

SOLD – RM 2,478

The lovely landscapes that the Malaysian countryside has to offer certainly proves as a muse for Shafurdin Habib, as he captures the beauty of nature at its best, untouched and flourishing. Utilizing his virtuosity with watercolour, he paints on paper very skillfully the hills, the trees, the skies, the sands and the seas along with villagers. Although it is a simple depiction of the sceneries of a humble setting, Shafurdin fastidiously details every single bit and form of this piece, wowing the viewers with its complexity. It shows two young boys waddling at a nearby river during dusk, resulting in an atmosphere that truly reminds one of the simplest pleasures of life.

Although inspirations may come in various forms, for Shafurdin Habib, it is the opulent, charming and picturesque landscapes of Malaysia’s countryside. For a true depiction of a subject, an artist must have a special connection with it. It is proven in this piece, as Shafudin’s painting of the East Coast comes alive through his experiences there. Beautifully done with with oil on canvas, he explores the allure and essential physiognomies of the beautiful views that make Malaysian countrysides – the abundant trees and the charming simplicity. Depicted here is a group of young boys playing football, with their mother standing at the side with her hands on her lips, berating them since they are playing well towards the evening. It is customary and tradition that children playing outside come in before the prayers at Maghrib, and this modest but accurate depiction of life in the countryside is as beautiful as the real thing. Shafurdin Habib was born in Kampung Basong, Perak, in 1961. A hobby he had as a boy, which was drawing in all his exercise book, turned into something big as he developed a real passion for art. Many of his influences are derived from Khalil Ibrahim, whom he befriended after he moved to Kuala Lumpur to pursue art.