LOT 44
ISMAIL LATIFF
B. Melaka, 1955
Jampung No. 2, 2001
& Dingin Bukit No. 1, 2000
Signed “Ismail Latiff” on middle bottom
Acrylic on paper
18 x 18 cm x 2 pieces
Provenance Private Collection, Kuala Lumpur
RM 1,500 – RM 2,500
Ismail Latiff often transports his viewers to another world where everything is carefree, serene and tranquil. His pieces often feature the theme of escapism, as if in a dream or gazing upon galaxies or even water.
Omnipresent in his works is also the circle that deck the canvas, drawing the attention of the viewers. It is a symbol of perfection a balance, explained the artist, an embodiment and search to be one and whole with the universe.
Its sibling piece is only subtly different from the first, as this offers the cognizance that this piece is in motion, moving from its original position as portrayed in the earlier piece. The flecks of red have now travelled to the left, and Ismail Latiff’s ubiquitous circle of balance is getting lighter in shade, as is approaching its goal, ever-moving towards it.
The entire mood is tranquil, soothing and calm, one that takes away your worries and provides one with the perfect haven and the unadulterated escape.
Ismail Latiff is a Melaka-born artist who trained formally in arts at MARA Institute of Technology. His artworks of both the mystical and abstract kind are known locally and internationally. Having started off his career in advertising before switching to fine arts, his philosophy of life and work is “Art is Life and one of the best introduction to art is Nature.”